Former Arsenal goalkeeper David Seaman has praised Nick Pope’s start to life at Newcastle United but believes he is still England’s third choice goalkeeper. Pope made the switch from Burnley to St. James’ Park and has looked an assured presence in between the sticks, coming up with superb performances against the likes of Manchester City and Liverpool.
The 30-year-old has been one of the Premier League’s most reliable ‘keepers since taking the number one spot at Burnley, but has been capped just eight times by England. That is despite being called up to the squad several times, including for the 2018 World Cup.
Everton’s Jordan Pickford has been England’s first choice since the backend of 2017, and in his 45 appearances has rarely, if ever at all, let anyone down. It is for that reason, coupled with his recent form at Goodison Park, that Seaman believes there is ‘no doubt’ Pickford is England’s number one.
READ MORE: Bruno Guimaraes' ex-boss makes Barcelona and Real Madrid claim about Newcastle star
Speaking to talkSPORT, he said: “England’s number one is definitely Jordan Pickford, there’s no doubt about that. He’s done brilliantly for England, you can’t question that. People question him sometimes at Everton but even at the end of last season he showed why he’s England number one because he made some big saves at crucial times when the pressure was on but obviously he’s out.
“Going into these two games I think Nick [Pope] and Aaron [Ramsdale] will get a game each. For me Aaron’s the number two, Nick’s doing really well at Newcastle. I think he’s getting a lot more to do than what he thought he might be doing because I thought he’d be a bit less than what he had at Burnley but from what I’m seeing he’s getting a lot to do at Newcastle.
“It’s different with Aaron, because Arsenal are top of the league, not getting as much to do but that’s much more like playing an international game where you don’t get a lot to do and all of a sudden you’re called upon to be at your best. It’s a good learning curve for Aaron.”
READ NEXT
Sweden's 'take charge' message to Alexander Isak that Eddie Howe's Newcastle United can replicate
Sven Botman's Netherlands future now in doubt after bold Newcastle United decision
Newcastle United news LIVE: Rafa Benitez interview and Amanda Staveley on aim for this season
Eddie Howe already proven right over target decision as Dan Burn responds to 'reality check'
