Former England and Arsenal goalkeeper David Seaman has warned Nick Pope he best be ready to face Erling Haaland as Manchester City travel to Newcastle this weekend. The former Borussia Dortmund striker has scored two goals in his opening two games - a brace at West Ham United on the opening day of the season, before notching an assist against Bournemouth last time out.
The game this weekend will undoubtedly be the toughest test of the season so far for Eddie Howe's side. The Magpies will use this weekend's game to see how much work needs to be done until they're on par with Man City and competing for honours.
Supporters know that the project on Tyneside is a long-term one, with Newcastle still some way off matching their Premier League rivals financially as a result of Financial Fair Play. Speaking on his podcast Seaman Says, he said: "No matter how much money they've got, they started almost bottom when it came in. They got the new manager in and it's a total rebuild.
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"This is a great example of where Newcastle need to be. They're playing Man City and that's exactly where they want to be. Will they get there? I think they'll be close.
"It does take time. I'm just looking forward to the game and Nick Pope better be ready because I'm sure he's going to be busy. With Haaland, if he's not getting the goals, he's setting them up and it's a very interesting game which I can't wait to watch."
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