Newcastle United January agreement has 'progressed' amid seven-week injury blow

Pope hasn’t featured since the Magpies’ 4-2 defeat at Brentford on December 7 because of a knee injury but has returned to full training this week.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, head coach Eddie Howe confirmed: “Yeah, there's a chance he'll be in the squad. I think he's started training with the group again and it's great to see Nick back in his presence and his positivity that he brings.

“[I’ve] seen him do some really good things this week, so yeah, delighted to have him back in the mix.”

Martin Dubravka has stepped up in Pope’s absence, winning nine of his 10 matches as well as keeping six clean sheets. He is expected to remain in between the sticks at St Mary’s with Pope replacing Odysseas Vlachodimos on the bench.

The Slovakian was expected to join Saudi Pro League side Al Shabab this month but his form has prompted the Magpies to open talks to keep him. Dubravka is out of contract at the end of the season.

Asked if an agreement is in place, Howe replied: “Yeah, I believe talks have progressed well. I'm not 100% sure where they stand right now, but I think we're moving forward together.”

Speaking about Dubravka previously, Howe said: “I think Martin has been in a difficult situation, like any player that is coming out of contract in the summer.

“Always with any player I’ve worked with, there is always that feeling of doubt. He will naturally want some conclusions in his future, whether that’s a new contract with us or whatever the outcome.

“But he’s certainly played very well and I’ve been really pleased with him. I think he has more than played his part in our recent run of fixtures. Against Arsenal I thought he was very good so hopefully, we can come to some sort of agreement with him.”