Nick Pope has hailed Eddie Howe and Gareth Southgate for their man-management skills. The Newcastle United goalkeeper is away on international duty as England aim to end their 56-year curse in Qatar.
Pope, alongside Kieran Trippier and Callum Wilson, is part of a Toon trio for the Three Lions at the World Cup. The only other time this happened was in 1998, when David Batty, Alan Shearer and Rob Lee were chosen to represent the nation by Glenn Hoddle.
Ironically, a poor run of form leading up to the tournament has seen Howe linked with the England job should Southgate fail to deliver on the big stage. The Magpies’ boss dismissed talk of a switch when asked by reporters ahead of the 4-1 win over Fulham in October.
READ MORE: Newcastle United star Bruno Guimaraes avoids injury scare in Brazil World Cup boost
“Gareth has done an incredible job and I mean that from the bottom of my heart,” Howe said. “You have to remember where England were before he took over and what he has done for the country. I never say never, never say no, it won’t be something I am interested in. But in the short term, it is not on my radar at all.
“It is all Newcastle and trying to make this team better. I have always said I love the day-to-day coaching, and love being with the players on the training ground. (With) international football, you get that taken away for long periods. At this moment in my life that is not something I want to do.”
Now, on the eve of the World Cup, Pope has discussed the similarities between his manager at club and international level. He told talkSPORT: “They are both good man managers, I'd say. Both have their way of playing. Out here (the World Cup) it's important that the squad knows their roles and that's the same for me at my club.
“Whoever is on the pitch from the start or comes off the bench - they know their role. I think it's important to have that clear, concise game plan in the starting XI.”
READ NEXT
Former Premier League boss delivers verdict on Trent Alexander-Arnold and Kieran Trippier debate
World Cup squad numbers for Wilson, Bruno Guimaraes, Trippier, Pope, Schär and Garang
Callum Wilson gives first England interview as Newcastle striker leaves for Qatar
'My only focus' - Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe dismisses continued England speculation
Gary Neville makes Trent Alexander-Arnold World Cup claim amid Kieran Trippier England debate
