Nick Pope admits he did not dream of going to a World Cup as a child because he never believed he was good enough. Now he is heading for the second of his career in the form of his life and hoping to play a part in ending England's quest for another major honour.
The 30-year-old Newcastle goalkeeper travelled to Russia four years ago as Gareth Southgate's number three, but while Jordan Pickford seemingly remains the man in possession, Pope's contribution to his club's unlikely surge into the Premier League's upper reaches has simply enhanced his reputation.
It is a scenario he did not envisage as a youngster taking his first steps in the game. Asked if he had dreamed of going to the World Cup as a child, he replied: "I didn't think I was that good, to be honest. I thought I was a long way away.
