Newcastle United travel to face Everton at Goodison Park on Saturday desperately seeking their first Premier League away victory this season.
The Magpies' preparations have been dominated by one burning question: will manager Eddie Howe drop goalkeeper Nick Pope following a series of costly errors?
The Goalkeeping Conundrum
Howe faced the media at the club's North Tyneside training base on Friday morning, where Pope's position was the dominant topic. The England international's mistake in Marseille on Tuesday intensified calls from supporters for summer signing Aaron Ramsdale to be given his chance.
Newcastle were leading 1-0 just after half-time when Pope rushed from his area, allowing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to equalise. The French side scored the winner minutes later, leaving Howe with a major selection dilemma.
"All options are on the table for me," Howe admitted. "I need to think long and hard about who I pick. I'll try to do that on merit. I get the luxury of seeing players training every day, including goalkeepers."
The Newcastle boss offered a nuanced assessment of his goalkeeper's form, acknowledging Pope's exceptional shot-stopping while recognising the impact of recent high-profile errors.
"His shot-stopping has been incredible. He delivers so many saves that it's almost expected," Howe said. "The life of a goalkeeper is on a knife-edge. It's been very strong apart from a couple of high-profile moments."
Injury Updates and Return Timelines
Howe confirmed significant fitness news, with Yoane Wissa training with the first team for the first time since his arrival. The manager revealed he has a specific return date in mind for the £55m signing, though he kept the exact match confidential.
Meanwhile, the news on Kieran Trippier is less positive. The right-back has been sent for a scan on his injured hamstring and could be sidelined for up to four weeks, potentially missing eight matches including the Wear-Tyne derby against Sunderland.
Fellow right-back Emil Krafth also faces time out with a knee issue, though Howe stressed the problem isn't serious. Will Osula remains unavailable with an ankle problem, while Sven Botman has been managing a back complaint.
Tactical Surprises and Selection Options
With both senior right-backs injured, Howe revealed an interesting tactical possibility. Midfielder Lewis Miley, aged just 19, was deployed at right-back during the second half in Marseille and could feature there again.
"I have always had my eye on Lewis potentially being able to play that role," Howe explained. "He can play the role easily from a technical viewpoint and from an attacking viewpoint. He is a very good crosser of the ball."
Howe praised Miley's intelligence and positioning, suggesting the teenager's versatility provides a valuable short-term solution during the injury crisis.
As Newcastle prepare for their trip to Merseyside, Howe faces crucial decisions that could define their season. With pressure mounting for away results and selection dilemmas in multiple positions, Saturday's encounter at Everton represents a significant test of Newcastle's resilience and Howe's managerial acumen.
