Recent errors from Nick Pope could open the door for Newcastle teammate Aaron Ramsdale to cement his place and stake a claim for the England World Cup squad.
With first-choice keeper Pope struggling between the sticks, now is the time for Aaron Ramsdale.
Pope has been poor in recent weeks, drawing criticism from fans and pundits alike.
The number of high-profile mistakes Pope has been making is proving costly for Newcastle.
As a result, manager Eddie Howe faces a difficult decision – does he stick with Pope and back him to regain form, or twist and give Ramsdale the starting spot?
This is therefore a pivotal period for on-loan Southampton shot-stopper Ramsdale.
How this plays out in the weeks ahead will be crucial for both keepers, and play a big role in deciding who makes Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for next summer’s World Cup.
Eddie Howe Has A Decision To Make In Goal
Newcastle boss Eddie Howe is often loyal to his senior players, but may now be forced into a change.
His side’s drop in form has led to mounting pressure, with some calling for his job.
The latest Newcastle manager odds suggest Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola is among the candidates to replace Howe, with an upturn in form crucial if the current Magpies boss wants to stay at St. James’ Park.
Both the fans and board at Newcastle harbour ambitions of Champions League football and trophies, and cannot afford a liability in goal.
Pope has not become a poor keeper overnight, but he is clearly devoid of confidence and form.
The best move for all may therefore be to switch things up, before the situation deteriorates further.
Nick Pope’s Form Could Allow Aaron Ramsdale Back Into The England Squad
Nick Pope started the season in solid form.
He has so far made 17 appearances for Newcastle, delivering eight clean sheets in all competitions.
But those numbers mask a clear downturn in form. Pope has kept just one clean sheet in his last five, conceding nine goals in the process.
Many have blamed the keeper for Newcastle’s dreadful away form, with three straight losses on the road.
One Twitter (now X) user said: “Ahead against West Ham. Nick Pope error.
“Ahead against Brentford. Nick Pope error.
“Ahead against Marseille. Nick Pope error.”
Another added: “There is absolutely no excuse after tonight. Aaron Ramsdale MUST start over Nick Pope.”
What has been a particular cause for alarm is not just the number of goals Pope is conceding, but the manner of them.
The 33-year-old has made some terrible decisions that have cost his team dearly.
This included rushing around 40 yards out of his goal in Tuesday’s 2-1 Champions League defeat in Marseille, gifting the hosts an equaliser just moments into the second half.
🚨🇪🇺 AUBAMEYANG HAS EQUALIZED FOR MARSEILLE !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Marseille 1-1 Newcastle.pic.twitter.com/fRzvaeSmIh
— Tekkers Foot (@tekkersfoot) November 25, 2025
Aaron Ramsdale Ready To Capitalise On Poor Pope
Pope’s sudden slump has opened the door for Ramsdale to make his mark.
Former Arsenal keeper Ramsdale, 27, moved on loan from relegated Southampton in the summer.
He has so far been unable to dislodge Pope from between the sticks, making just three appearances – two in the EFL Cup and one in the league.
Ramsdale’s limited game time has severely harmed his England chances.
With regular minutes needed to keep himself sharp and force his way into Thomas Tuchel’s plans, it has been a frustrating few months for Ramsdale.
But that may all be about to change.
Ramsdale has been patient, and could now be rewarded.
A strong shot-stopper with good reflexes and a vocal command of his box, he instills confidence in his back-line.
And the timing of this possible change could not be more crucial.
With Thomas Tuchel making his final tweaks to the England squad, a place at the World Cup is now at stake.
Neither Ramsdale or Pope are likely to displace England number one Jordan Pickford, but both can compete for the second-choice position.
Ultimately, Eddie Howe’s decision will hinge on who can provide Newcastle with the stability and error-free performances they need.
But Ramsdale’s hunger and desire to prove himself could allow him to force his way back into England contention.
