NEWCASTLE manager Eddie Howe says Nick Pope will undergo surgery and insists the club have not approached David de Gea.
Current No1 Pope dislocated his shoulder during last weekend’s 1-0 home victory over Manchester United.
GettyNick Pope will be out for at least four months and will undergo surgery to his shoulder[/caption]
GettyEddie Howe insists the club have NOT made contact with David de Gea[/caption]
ReutersMartin Dubravka will step up in Pope’s absence[/caption]
The 31-year-old was replaced by Martin Dubravka in the 86th minute.
A number of reports claimed Newcastle would therefore move for David De Gea, who remains a free agent after ending his 12-year stay at Old Trafford.
But Howe has poured cold water on such suggestions.
Ahead of Newcastle’s trip to Everton, he told the Telegraph: “I’ve seen a lot of media headlines regarding goalkeepers and other players.
“We have not made any enquiries. If we were to recruit now we’d be recruiting in every area on the pitch.
“It’s a chance for the other keepers to consolidate their positions.
“We really believe in Martin. Martin is a high class goalkeeper, very good with his feet and distribution.”
He added: “Pope will be operated on. It will be about four months before his return.
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“He is naturally down. Nick had the Euros ahead of him and there is still a chance for him.”
The England international joins an already substantial Magpies injury list, with Callum Wilson, Dan Burn, Harvey Barnes and Jacob Murphy among those out.
Dubravka,33, spent time away on a season-long loan at United, before being recalled in January.
The Slovakian goalkeeper made two appearances for the Red Devils, both in the Carabao Cup.
Meanwhile, Pope also missed out of Euro 2020 due to an impending knee operation, which he later described as “heart-breaking”.
Pope will have an operation on his shoulder