‘Great’ – Newcastle United star reacts to £20m double transfer swoop

Nick Pope is eager to make a significant impact at Newcastle United as the club heads into the new season with a revamped goalkeeping squad.

After spending much of the 2023-24 campaign recovering from a dislocated shoulder, Pope is fit and prepared for his third season with Newcastle, following his £10 million transfer from Burnley in 2022.

Demonstrating his readiness, Pope delivered a clean sheet and made impressive saves in Newcastle’s recent 2-0 victory against Hull City.

Reflecting on his performance, Pope stated, “Always nice to win and keep a clean sheet. I thought we took on the test well in a different game against good opposition. To keep a clean sheet and score a couple of nice goals is always satisfying.”

Pope’s journey back to fitness was challenging, but his dedication never wavered. He made his return to the pitch on the final day of the 2023-24 season against Brentford, a testament to his hard work and resilience.

“I sacrificed a lot and a lot of work goes into recovery, a lot harder than when you’re playing,” Pope revealed. “I come back with a huge amount of gratitude to be able to train and play and be around the lads. It’s a huge motivation for me heading into the season.”

Pope emphasized the importance of maintaining a balanced mindset, saying, “As a goalkeeper, you know not to get too high with the highs or too low with the lows, and last season definitely proved that if nothing else.”

Pope expressed his appreciation for the support he received from Newcastle’s top-notch physios and sports scientists, which played a crucial role in his recovery. Now, with the team, he has traveled to Japan for friendly matches against Urawa Red Diamonds and Yokohama F. Marinos.

Discussing the trip, Pope shared with The Gazette, “A bit of sushi! It’s a really important part of pre-season. We’ve built a good foundation over the last couple of weeks since being back, and then with the game at Hull. So it’s three weeks before the season starts, and we’re building.”

The camaraderie and enthusiasm within the squad are palpable, with Pope adding, “You always get a lot of excitement around a new season and just to be back together is good. We had a good week in Germany, so we’ve spent a lot of time together. We’ve got great characters in the group and a good feeling amongst us, so we’re definitely enthusiastic heading into the new season.”

As Newcastle gears up for the new season, the goalkeeping department has seen significant changes. Alongside Pope, the squad now includes five senior goalkeepers.

Despite uncertainties surrounding Martin Dubravka’s future, he is expected to join the squad in Tokyo. Additionally, Newcastle has bolstered their goalkeeping options by signing Odysseas Vlachodimos and John Ruddy this summer.

According to The Athletic, Newcastle paid £20 million to acquire Vlachodimos from Nottingham Forest, with Elliot Anderson heading in the opposite direction for £35 million. Ruddy joined as a free agent following his release from Birmingham City.

Pope praised the new additions, saying, “We’ve gelled really well with two great characters and really experienced goalkeepers coming in. It’s great for the goalkeeper group and the team as well because they’re two good characters who have fit in straight away, which is credit to them as well.”

As the new Premier League season approaches, Nick Pope and Newcastle United are optimistic about their prospects. With a strengthened squad and a determined mindset, the team is poised to tackle the challenges ahead.

Pope’s return to fitness and form, coupled with the integration of experienced goalkeepers, sets a solid foundation for Newcastle’s ambitions in the upcoming season.

In summary, Nick Pope’s journey from injury to readiness is a testament to his resilience and dedication. As Newcastle United prepares for the new season, the club’s revamped goalkeeping squad, led by Pope, aims to make a significant impact on the Premier League.

The team’s enthusiasm and strong camaraderie further bolster their prospects, making Newcastle a team to watch in the 2023-24 season.