Newcastle United goalkeeper Nick Pope is likely to require shoulder surgery after dislocating his shoulder during the closing stages of his side's 1-0 Premier League victory over Manchester United at St James' Park. Manager Eddie Howe confirmed the injury, sustained in an innocuous diving save, has left the player in significant pain and will require a specialist opinion, but the outlook is not promising.
The Magpies climbed to fifth place thanks to Anthony Gordon's 55th-minute winner, but the result was overshadowed by Pope's injury. Manchester United had a late equaliser from Antony disallowed for offside against Harry Maguire, and manager Erik ten Hag conceded Newcastle were the better side. 'They were more proactive,' he said, while refusing to elaborate on a touchline disagreement with Anthony Martial.
Howe, already without 11 senior players through injury or suspension, was delighted with the performance. 'That's one of our best of the season,' he said, singling out Gordon for particular praise. 'He's playing at a very high level and getting goals. That is what you need to force your way into the England squad.'
