Former England goalkeeper David James has backed Loris Karius to deliver for Newcastle United this weekend. A nightmare situation unfolded at St James’ Park on Saturday and Nick Pope - arguably the Magpies’ best player in 2022-23 - was dismissed against Liverpool.
The 30-year-old clumsily handled outside of the area - giving Anthony Taylor no choice but to send him off. Toon supporters echoed a collective groan as their hopes of ending a 68-year domestic trophy curse diminished.
Pope’s one-match suspension means he will miss the Carabao Cup final against Manchester United. To make matters worse, backup goalkeeper Martin Dubravka is cup-tied - as he played for the Red Devils in an earlier round.
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Eddie Howe will likely give Loris Karius his debut, almost two years to the day since his last professional appearance. The situation has concerned supporters but ex-England and Liverpool shot-stopper James believes the 29-year-old can produce the goods.
“He has the potential of being the hero for Newcastle United and sticking with the goalkeepers union, I do believe it could be his day,” he told The Games Cabin.
“The reason why Newcastle United would have recruited him is because he is capable rather than just being experienced.
“I would tell myself that I’m going to get abused, put myself in that mindset and work on the basis that you’re a capable goalkeeper that is aware of everybody’s eyes on you. Just go out there and do it whilst everybody’s watching you.”
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