‘That’s why’ – Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United selection justified despite growing ‘concerns’

The Magpies have won ten points from their first four games in the Premier League and are third in the table, only behind Arsenal on goal difference.    Although the results are improving, their performances have yet to hit top gear and the Magpies were grateful to Nick Pope for maintaining their unbeaten start to the season at Molineux.

   As he did against Tottenham Hotspur before the international break, Pope pulled off successive saves to prevent Wolves from doubling their lead before making a hugely impressive last-second stop from Matheus Cunha to preserve victory.    Pope’s shot-stopping ability was never in question during his time at St James’ Park, but his distribution has come under scrutiny in recent weeks.

   Again at Molineux, Pope saw several shots go straight into contact while at times he looked shaky with the ball at his feet.    The modern game requires goalkeepers to use their feet, and while that might not be one of Pope’s strengths, Jamie Carragher has explained that Newcastle United shouldn’t worry too much about it.

   After Pope made a late stop to deny Cunha’s acrobatic volley, Carragher said: “That’s why Newcastle keep picking him. Not because of the way he is with the ball at his feet, but because of saves like that.”

   Pope missed almost the entire second half of last season with an injury and will be looking to avoid a repeat this season.