Pope: I turned down rivals to join Magpies
NICK Pope snubbed West Ham and Southampton to join Newcastle, who were his first choice as soon as he heard of the Magpies’ interest.
The England international joined United for £10million from relegated Burnley and will rival incumbent goalkeeper Martin Dubravka for the starting spot.
With the World Cup in Qatar of the winter, Pope wants regular first-team action if he is to cement his place in Gareth Southgate’s squad.
The 30-year-old could have joined another club more willing to guarantee him regular football but he believes the prospect of joining United was one he couldn’t pass up
When asked about other interest before his big-money move from the Clarets, Pope said: “There were other clubs potentially interested but as it got to Newcastle, there was no one else.”
After a quick start to their summer dealing, Newcastle’s business has slowed down in recent weeks.
Pope’s arrival came between the club agreeing moves for Matt Targett and Sven Botman but their pursuit of more attacking talent has stalled.
While some of that relates to outrageous demands from clubs and agents, some of it has been down to players dragging their heels.
But Pope made it clear he was eager to make the move when the option become available and was impressed by the way the club handled negotiations.
And he believes that St James’ Park could be the ideal place for him to hit new heights in his career.
The 6ft 6in shot-stopper 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.”