Injury has finally given Aaron Ramsdale an opportunity at Newcastle United.
Having spent a lot of time on the bench following his arrival on loan, Newcastle United fans were clamouring for Aaron Ramsdale to get a chance in the starting XI.
Nick Pope’s groin injury has given Ramsdale that chance, with the loanee starting the Magpies’ last seven games in all competitions.
Newcastle were amazing in the first half vs Chelsea! Would you make any changes against Man United? 🤔
The 27-year-old has not been massively convincing. In fact, I heavily criticised Ramsdale following Newcastle United’s draw with Chelsea.
That may have been harsh, but the fact of the matter is that Ramsdale is not a long-term solution to Eddie Howe’s goalkeeper situation. In truth, he might not even be the short-term solution for much longer.
Aaron Ramsdale is Newcastle United’s number two goalkeeper
That is because of how Ramsdale is viewed within the Newcastle United squad, as Pope edges closer towards full fitness.
According to the Athletic’s Chris Waugh, Newcastle United very much see Ramsdale as their number two goalkeeper.
He is an understudy to Nick Pope, who has been Eddie Howe’s first choice stopper for his entire Toon career.
Waugh adds that he expects Pope to reclaim his place in the Newcastle United starting XI very soon once he is fully over his groin problem.
When Nick Pope could return from injury
That theory could soon be put to the test, as Pope is not far away from being available again.
His return should be imminent, especially as he was even in contention to feature against Sunderland on 14th December.
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We've not been great away, but I reckon we could get a belated Christmas present 🎁
Two more games have passed since then with no sign of the 33-year-old, with Manchester United on Boxing Day up next.
According to the Chronicle, Pope is expected to return against Manchester United.
That will be a boost for Howe, although it feels likely that Ramsdale will still be between the sticks on Friday night.
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