Shay Given has hailed Nick Pope’s “brilliant” impact on Newcastle United since arriving last summer. Signing a goalkeeper was not regarded as a priority by some supporters, with long-serving shot-stopper Martin Dubravka making the jersey his own in recent years.
However, Burnley’s relegation to the Championship meant Pope was available for £10million - an offer Toon chiefs could not refuse. Eddie Howe made the 30-year-old his first choice and subsequently loaned Dubravka out to Manchester United.
His faith has paid dividends, with Newcastle conceding the least goals in the Premier League. Pope also has four clean sheets to his name this season - ensuring his record of one in every three top-flight appearances throughout his career.
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Someone who knows all about representing the Magpies between the sticks is Given, having done so 462 times in his career. Speaking to Amazon Prime before the 1-0 win against Everton, the 46-year-old praised the present incumbent of the number one shirt.
“He made a big move from Burnley in the summer and settled in so well,” Given said. “He’s won the player of the month award and played for England last month.
“Like a duck to water, he has taken to this team, to these funds and had a brilliant start. He’s 6ft 5in, sometimes it's difficult to get down with your hands. There’s been games this year where they've (just) stayed in it and they’ve got the best defensive record in the Premier League. And Nick Pope is one of the main reasons why.”
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