An injury to Newcastle United goalkeeper Nick Pope means that Tottenham Hotspur star Fraser Forster has been called up to England's squad for upcoming Euro 2024 qualifiers, as per The Athletic
Pope had been called up by Three Lions manager Gareth Southgate on Thursday afternoon, named as one of three goalkeepers in the squad alongside Everton's Jordan Pickford and Arsenal man Aaron Ramsdale. However, the former Burnley shot-stopper has since withdrawn after picking up a minor injury earlier this week.
That left a spot in the squad, which will be filled by Spurs' Forster, who has been standing in for club captain Hugo Lloris since the veteran Frenchman sustained an injury against Manchester City earlier this year. The 35-year-old has performed admirably in Lloris' absence, earning the praise of Lilywhites head coach Antonio Conte in the process.
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Speaking to the media on Thursday, Conte lauded the ex-Southampton 'keeper, claiming that he has been an excellent addition since arriving from St Mary's last summer. “For sure Fraser is playing very well," Conte said.
"He’s showing to be a reliable player. He’s showing to be a really good guy.
“I remembered him well from in the Champions League when we played Celtic with Juventus. He impressed me and the way to be a keeper.
“At the same time, he’s a really good person, a positive person for this dressing room. I think it was a fantastic signing for the club and he’s showing he deserves credit.
“For sure Hugo is our keeper but before to come back he has to stay well. We won’t force the situation because he needs to be right and Fraser deserves credit. We are really happy with Fraser but when Hugo will be ready he is our first choice.”
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