Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe has spoken about the intense battle in the goalkeeping department ahead of the clash with Wimbledon at St James' Park. Howe is likely to rest Nick Pope against the League Two side but has the luxury of other options with John Ruddy, Martin Dubravka and Odysseas Vlachodimos all in contention. The Greek international is yet to make an appearance since his £20million move from Nottingham Forest.
Speaking on his keeper options Howe said today: "It's fair to say that it's quite unusual to have that number of established goalkeepers and we have that position, but I think we found last year to our cost injuries to goalkeepers can have a really detrimental effect on your season. "Look, we've got strength in depth in that position, we'll enjoy having that strength. All the goalkeepers are training well, their attitudes have been excellent.
"They're all supporting Nick at the moment, who has started the season and started the season very well, so I'm enjoying seeing that battle for place." Regardless of changes to the side Howe also stated he was taking the competition seriously. The head coach went on: "I think we will see this as an opportunity to get game-time for those who haven't but still pick a very strong team.
"Ultimately we need to pick a team that will take us through to the next round. It's a vitally important game and our preparation will be the same as it would be for a Premier League game. Newcastle made it to the quarter-finals of the c.