Martin Dubravka could now be set to deputise for the Englishman once again
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By CRAIG HOPE
Published: 14:36 EST, 12 December 2024 | Updated: 14:36 EST, 12 December 2024
Newcastle goalkeeper Nick Pope is a doubt for Saturday’s visit of Leicester, in what has been a bruising week for Eddie Howe.
The head coach has seen striker Callum Wilson ruled out for two months with a hamstring injury, as revealed by Mail Sport on Wednesday.
And we understand Pope is now struggling with a knee issue picked up during last weekend’s 4-2 defeat at Brentford.
If he fails to make it, Martin Dubrvaka would almost certainly deputise, with Odysseas Vlachodimos taking his place on the bench.
Pope missed the second half of last season after shoulder surgery but has been injury free so far this campaign. The 32-year-old makes a huge difference when in the side and Newcastle’s results have noticeably dipped in his absence.
Dubravka has been an unused sub in the last seven matches and is ahead of Greece keeper Vlachodimos in the pecking order.
Newcastle have suffered another injury bow with 'keeper Nick Pope a doubt for weekend
Pope has been a vital player for Newcastle this season after missing much of last term
Eddie Howe (pictured) may again have to turn to his deputy goalkeeper Martin Dubravka
The news comes just after Callum Wilson was ruled out of action with his latest issue
The Slovakian has played just 45 minutes this season and was replaced by Vlachodimos at half-time during October’s Carabao Cup win over AFC Wimbledon after suffering a knee injury. He last started a Premier League game in May.
Newcastle have a huge week with Leicester followed by the midweek visit of Brentford in the Carabao Cup quarter-final before a trip to Ipswich on Saturday.