Former Newcastle United goalkeeper Tim Krul believes Eddie Howe will stick to his guns amid the debate between Nick Pope and Aaron Ramsdale.
Despite a series of high-profile errors this season, Howe has insisted he still continues to back Pope as Newcastle United’s goalkeeper.
The battle between Pope and Ramsdale for a starting berth has been the major talking point amongst supporters on social media.
Pope is clearly under pressure at Newcastle but, perhaps unsurprisingly, Howe gave little away during his pre-match press conference ahead of Saturday’s trip to Everton.
Who should start in goal vs Everton? It’s very much up for debate🤔
The 33-year-old has been a brilliant servant to the football club since the moment he arrived in the summer of 2022 and does deserve respect.
That’s not to absolve him from criticism but it’s not true that Howe doesn’t have any reason to pick Pope whatsoever.
Krul, who knows a thing or two about playing in goal for the Magpies, believes he knows what will probably happen on Saturday.
Tim Krul expecting Nick Pope to start for Newcastle United against Everton
Despite so much debate for fans on social media, Krul thinks the Newcastle United manager will likely stick with Pope.
Krul, however, does believe that things could change if Pope continues to make mistakes.
“Ultimately, I think Eddie will stick with Nick Pope for a couple more games,” said Krul when speaking to talkSPORT.
Should Newcastle fans be adopting this energy for Nick Pope?
“But we all know, a few more mistakes, a few more losses and the pressure will probably be heavy on Eddie to change to give Aaron a chance.”
That may annoy sections of supporters, some of whom are eager to see Ramsdale finally handed a chance in the Premier League.
How many goals Nick Pope has conceded against Everton
Pope has made 12 appearances against Everton over the course of his career. In total, he has conceded 11 times when playing the Toffees.
Four of those games, however, have ended in a clean sheet.
Everton are struggling for goals this season and Newcastle will hope that continues on Saturday.
Still, if Pope does start, he’s under an awful lot of pressure.
Any even slight mistake will likely be picked over, such is the situation he currently finds himself in.
Howe might be wise to take him out of the firing line, if only for a few weeks.
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