Newcastle United face a goalkeeper dilemma as Nick Pope undergoes surgery

Nick Pope is set to miss the clash with Chelsea through injury.

Newcastle United goalkeeper Nick Pope is set to miss out on the team’s last game of the season against Chelsea.

According to The Times, United’s first choice goalie is set to undergo a minor surgery on his hand.

Pope has been a star player for Eddie Howe this season keeping 14 clean sheets for the Mags as they chased down the Champions League, however fans noticed his fingers looked abnormal in a post-match interview on Monday.

The England international will not be called up to the squad for the Euro qualifiers as a result.

It’s a concerning end to the season for Pope but many Toon fans see his absence as an opportunity. One fan tweeted: ‘Oh my god please play Gillespie I’m on my knees,’ while another said: ‘Time for Gillespie to shine against Chelsea!’

Many fans believe since Newcastle United have already secured a top four finish and Champions League football, the last match of the season is a chance for the squads unused players to get some game time.

The signing of Loris Karius and the recall of Martin Dubravka from his loan at Manchester United means Gillespie is currently Newcastle’s fourth-choice ‘keeper. Although those ahead of him also have uncertain futures at the club, this summer could signal the end of his three-year stay at the club.

And fans are calling on Gillespie- the Geordie goalkeeper who came up through Newcastle’s academy but who is yet to play a senior game for his boyhood club.

However, in Pope’s absence Newcastle United no.1 Martin Dubravka has nearly always been called up to replace him- the only exception being the Carabao Cup final when Loris Karius was selected after Dubravka was ruled out.

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