Newcastle goalkeeper Pope attended the press conference before the Champions League match between Newcastle United and Benfica at home. He discussed his start to the season, England's prospects, communication with Tuchel and memories of Mourinho...
Newcastle goalkeeper Pope attended the press conference before the Champions League match between Newcastle United and Benfica at home. He discussed his start to the season, England's prospects, communication with Tuchel and memories of Mourinho.
On Newcastle's start to the season
Pope: We had some good moments and did some really good things. We are still making progress.
About your personal start to the season
Pope: I feel like I'm in good shape. My body feels really good and I feel like I'm building on a good pre-season.
On the ambitions of the England national team
Pope: In a World Cup year, England is always at the back of my mind. Newcastle comes first, if you don't play well in Newcastle there will be no England team.
On the relationship with Ramsdale
Pope: Very good. I've known him for several years and trained with him at various stages. He strengthens us as a team and he’s a really good character within the team.
About Jiafu
Pope: I really enjoyed playing with him and he adapted quickly. We often work on things together on the training ground and he is a fantastic player.
On memories of Mourinho
Pope: I remember his Chelsea team only conceded 15 goals a season, and as a goalkeeper, this always impressed me. He won titles immediately upon taking over and did it with a certain style and a certain charisma that as a fan you won't forget his time at Chelsea.
On communication with Tuchel and the chance of being selected for the national team
Pope: I talked to him soon after he took over the job, and I have been in regular contact with Hilario (goalkeeper coach). Communication was excellent and I enjoyed the opportunity to speak with him. I'm still on the shortlist and this isn't over yet. The best way is always to let your football do the talking and keep the ball out of the goal. I hope Dan Byrne has put in a good word for me too! I've been to two World Cups, so to play in a third one in the United States, at my age, will be very special.
On the importance of home field advantage in the Champions League
Pope: A few years ago we needed to make more use of home games. Any game at St James' Park we need to take advantage and get a positive result.
On the team’s prospects in the Champions League
Pope: This is something this club has not done for a long time, so it is a big ambition for the entire team. We have a top team and a top coach, and top teams should be in the later stages of the Champions League. We have more experience than when we first competed, so we hope to take it to the next level. We didn't have a lot of Champions League experience when we first started, but now we have that experience as a team and that can help us improve this time.
On not being the only "Big Nick" in the club
Pop: I'm enjoying it. I think he can hold up this title better than me! He is a pleasure to have at the club, both on and off the pitch.
