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Photo by Michael Regan - The FA/The FA via Getty Images
Photo by Michael Regan - The FA/The FA via Getty Images

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‘I’m not sure about him’: Ian Wright has serious doubts about 30-year-old Newcastle United player

Ben Evans
Ben Evans

It was a mixed international break for one Newcastle United player, as the squad returns to St. James’ Park.

Gareth Southgate’s side suffered a 1-0 defeat to Italy, before an entertaining 3-3 draw with Germany at Wembley.

The results confirmed England’s relegation in the Nations League and didn’t fill many fans with hope going into the World Cup.

Ian Wright explained he had serious doubts about Nick Pope, who featured in both games.

Photo by Justin Setterfield - The FA/The FA via Getty Images
Photo by Justin Setterfield – The FA/The FA via Getty Images

Pope was deputising for the injured Jordan Pickford, and had the chance to try and steal the Everton keeper’s position.

After a decent outing against Italy, Pope had an awful match against Germany.

The Newcastle keeper received the worst ever rating for an England player for his performance.

England captain Harry Kane backed Newcastle’s number one, but Wright still has serious doubts about Pope going forward.

Wright has doubts over Pope

Pope has had a brilliant start to his time at Newcastle,

He was ‘excellent’ against Premier League champions Manchester City, helping Newcastle earn a point that day.

Neil Warnock believes he’s one of the best goalkeeper’s in the league right now, but he’s not done enough to convince Wright.

: “I’m not sure about Popey to be honest. I felt for him.

“Germany targeted him last night and we can’t afford that.

“I was nervous for him again, the way he is, the ball going back to him.

Photo by Michael Regan - The FA/The FA via Getty Images
Photo by Michael Regan – The FA/The FA via Getty Images

“There was a couple when the ball went back to him early doors, I’m just thinking he looked very, very nervous. He’s not good (with the ball) on the floor.

“He’s somebody that teams would definitely target if he was in goal, and his feet weren’t great, and that shot.

“I know it’s just landed in front of him, but you’ve got to push it round (the post).”

Pope has just over a month to convince Gareth Southgate he’s worth another shot at the World Cup.

No return date has been set for Pickford, however plenty of England fans will be hoping he’s fit again soon.

He suffered a thigh injury against Liverpool, but is unlikely to be worried about his position at the World Cup after Pope’s most recent appearance.