**Newcastle United had a busy summer in the transfer market, even without the background noise of a certain someone bringing the vibe down.**
The Magpies were beaten to several targets, and at times it felt like we were never going to get the players we needed to strengthen our squad, but when that window slammed shut on 1st September, we were pretty happy with the business we'd done.
While Yoane Wissa and Jacob Ramsey have been unfortunate in picking up injuries early in their Newcastle careers, and Anthony Elanga has struggled to get going, Nick Woltemade and Malick Thiaw have started brilliantly.
Aaron Ramsdale hasn't really had the chance to show us much yet, thanks to the fine form of Nick Pope, who spoke to the media today (via [The Chronicle](https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/howe-mourinho-press-conference-live-32713971)) ahead of Newcastle's clash with Benfica on Tuesday night in the Champions League.
Nick Pope has hailed Malick Thiaw as 'brilliant'
Nick Pope is enjoying playing behind Malick Thiaw
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Pope praised the character of Ramsdale and spoke about how he's strengthened the squad, but he reserved a special place for another summer signing in German defender Malick Thiaw.
> "I really enjoy playing with Malick and he has hit the ground running. We work together quite a lot on things at the training ground and he is a brilliant player."
Malick Thiaw has already formed a strong partnership with Sven Botman, and the young duo seems to have overtaken Fabian Schar and Dan Burn as first-choice starting centre-backs, although Burn is getting an extended run in the team to cover at left-back.
Nick Pope is hoping for an England recall for next year's World Cup
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We imagine that Nick Pope being sent out to face the media today is a strong hint that he will be between the sticks tomorrow night, ahead of Ramsdale, who has only appeared in the Carabao Cup so far for Newcastle.
Pope is great form right now, though, so we don't have an issue with it. Indeed, Pope was asked about his hopes for a recall to England, and while he admitted that it's always on his mind, his priority is performing well for Newcastle.
As Pope himself says, without Newcastle there is no England, so as long as he keeps his eye on the prize and keeps performing for us, it should be all good.