Nick Pope was in the running for a transfer to either West Ham or Southampton after Burnley were relegated last season - but he admits his head was turned the moment Newcastle United's interest became genuine.
Pope feels that his move to St James' Park can help take his career on to the "next level" as he prepares to do battle with fan favourite Martin Dubravka. The former Sparta Prague man was excellent in the 2-1 win over Athletic Bilbao but awaits a decision on whether he will resume in goal.
When asked about other interest before his £10million move from the Clarets, Pope said: "There were other clubs potentially interested but as it got to Newcastle, there was no one else."
With Pope now through the door at St James' Park he is ready to knuckle down and find his best form with the type of displays that could take him to the World Cup with England in Qatar next November. Pope was eager to make the move to Newcastle happen to focus on both club and country as soon as possible after Burnley went down.
He said: "I was aware of it being a possibility a couple of weeks before, and when it was done, it was really quick. I was really hopeful of it happening, so when it happened, I was delighted.
"I’m hugely excited to be here. I feel like it’s something that could take my career to the next level."
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