Howe ponders Pope recall for big derby

NEWCASTLE

- LEE RYDER Chief Newcastle United writer [e-mail]

United boss Eddie Howe is pondering whether to recall Nick Pope for the Wear-Tyne derby on Sunday.The goalkeeper has missed Newcastle's last four games with a groin strain. However, defenders Sven Botman and Kieran Trippier are definitely ruled out for the encounter at the Stadium of Light on Sunday as United's resources at the back remain stretched.

Howe, meanwhile, has indicated that Yoane Wissa is also poised to potentially start the tussle with Sunderland despite suffering a 'knock-back' this week after making his debut at the weekend.

However, it is the goalkeeping slot that will attract most interest from concerned fans after some shaky recent displays from both Pope and Aaron Ramsdale.