Nick Pope survived a minor injury scare against West Ham _(Image: John Walton)_
EDDIE Howe praised Nick Pope for his performance and clean sheet at West Ham, in what was a strong hint that the England international will keep the gloves for Sunday's Carabao Cup final.
Pope was recalled for the visit to the London Stadium after Martin Dubravka had played in the FA Cup defeat to Brighton.
That Pope got the nod on Monday night made the 32-year-old a strong favourite to start at Wembley. And that now looks increasingly likely after the keeper's clean sheet and display that impressed the head coach in the 1-0 win against the Hammers.
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"I was pleased with Nick, he defended his goal really well," said Howe.
"It's a difficult call but it's not the only one. I have difficult calls in a few positions which shows we have a good squad.
"The goalkeeper situation hasn't been clear because both are high class.
"It's the same in any position, you look for the best man in the job - you take form, training and everything into consideration. We do that for every position. We have tough calls to make."
There was a brief scare for Pope in the second half on Monday night when he looked to have suffered an injury in what was a rather innocuous incident, but Howe said afterwards Newcastle had come through the game unscathed.
"Everyone has to be ready because football has a way of surprising you continually," said Howe.
"We need the whole squad focused on Sunday now and everyone has to be ready to perform."