Nick Pope could be set for an unexpected return to Newcastle United’s matchday squad under Matthias Jaissle after failing to find a move away from the club during the summer transfer window.
The 34-year-old goalkeeper was made available for transfer throughout the summer, but Newcastle were unable to secure a suitable buyer. Since Jaissle took charge and the club brought in Lukas Hornicek from Braga, Pope has not been included in any matchday squads.
However, with the English transfer window now closed, Pope may be back among the substitutes for Newcastle’s clash with Bournemouth at St James’ Park on Saturday afternoon. The potential recall comes after backup goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen picked up an ankle injury during training ahead of the fixture.
The French keeper, who arrived from Stade de Reims in June, is expected to undergo an MRI scan before the Bournemouth game. While the injury is not believed to be serious, Newcastle are hopeful the 20-year-old could recover in time to feature against Millwall in Tuesday’s Carabao Cup tie.
With most transfer markets now shut — aside from a few remaining options such as Saudi Arabia — Pope is likely to stay on Tyneside until at least January.
Jaissle confirmed that Pope remains part of his squad despite uncertainty surrounding the goalkeeper’s future.
“There are still a couple of countries where players can move, but we have been clear in our discussions,” Jaissle said.
“I spoke with Nick a few weeks ago about his situation at the club. A transfer is not just decided by the club; it also depends on the player, agents and many other factors involved in negotiations.
“For now, he is a member of the squad. I have already said that I appreciate what he has done for this club and the way he has handled the current situation.”
Pope has been registered in Newcastle’s Premier League squad and remains available for selection if needed. His possible return to first-team involvement comes as a surprise after it appeared he had played his final match for the club.
If Jaouen is unavailable, Newcastle’s other goalkeeper options for the bench include Mark Gillespie and Aidan Harris, neither of whom has made a Premier League appearance.