'Outstanding' Newcastle United star a major doubt to face Tottenham Hotspur - alternative already lined up
Newcastle United face Tottenham Hotspur eyeing a third successive Premier League victory.
Aaron Ramsdale is set to continue in goal as Newcastle United host Tottenham Hotspur at St James’ Park on Tuesday night.
Ramsdale was brought into the starting XI for Saturday night’s 4-1 win at Everton after Nick Pope picked up a groin injury in training the day before. There had been calls from supporters for Eddie Howe to make the change anyhow, following a series of recent errors by Pope.
Howe revealed after the game that Pope is due to undergo a scan this week to determine the severity.
Nick Pope doubtful for Newcastle United’s clash v Tottenham Hotspur
Speaking about Pope ahead of the Spurs game, Howe said: “No further update from Saturday. Again, he's probably one of a number of players that we'll analyse early this week and then try and get a proper diagnosis.”
Howe added: “I can't speak highly enough of Nick. Since I've worked with him, I think he's been outstanding, not just as a goalkeeper because you see the product, but as a person.
“The character that he is, he's a really humorous lad, he's really vibrant and brings good energy to the group and the players see that and respect him immensely.
“You can see that by the fact that they voted him into the leadership group as a mark of the character that he is behind the scenes. His goalkeeping is second to none, he's the best shot stopper I've ever worked with and we need him back.”
Aaron Ramsdale set to start against Tottenham Hotspur
As Newcastle seek clarity on Pope’s injury, Ramsdale is set to continue in goal. The former Arsenal man, who joined on a season-long loan deal from Southampton in the summer, started the Carabao Cup win over Spurs last month.
But the win at Everton at the weekend was Ramsdale’s first Premier League start for the Magpies.
“I didn't really see him actually to be honest, media duties etc but I'm sure he felt good returning back to Newcastle as we all did after the game,” Howe said. “There's that feeling that we haven't had very often away from home where you've done a good job, you've completed your objective and then you're focusing on the next game in a positive way.
“So he can be very pleased. It's a really good start for him. Yes, I'm sure he's in a good place.”