Newcastle are awaiting the results of scans on Nick Pope’s shoulder with initial reports suggesting the England goalkeeper could be out for up to five months.
Pope is thought to have dislocated the joint during Saturday’s 1-0 win over Manchester United at St James’ Park, although the club have yet to confirm the severity of the injury.
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If the reports are correct, however, Pope will face a battle to return before the end of the season.
It is not the first time Pope has dislocated his left shoulder after sustaining the same injury at Burnley in 2018. On that occasion he was on the sidelines for five months. A similar timeline here would mean Newcastle may have to assess their options in the January window.
The Saudi-backed club do have experience in reserve with Martin Dubravka and Loris Karius but they may delve in the transfer market to keep their forward momentum in tact.
Match-winning clearance! ???? pic.twitter.com/40Mue7jng4
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) December 3, 2023