Latest. Pope on Magpies' Champions League aims: 'We're looking to take it to the next level'

Nick Pope
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3 hours ago
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Newcastle United goalkeeper Nick Pope says making it to the latter stages of the Champions League is a "big ambition" for his side as they prepare to face Benfica on Tuesday night.

The Magpies welcome the Portuguese giants to St. James' Park for their third league phase fixture in Europe's top competition, and their second on Tyneside (kick-off 8pm BST).

United exited the Champions League at the group stage in the previous format two years ago, but Pope is hopeful the experience of that campaign will come in handy as they look to progress further this time around.

"It's something this football club's not done in a long, long time, so it's a big ambition for the group," he said. "We've got a top team, top manager, and getting to the later stages of the Champions League is something everyone wants to be a part of.

"We qualified for the Champions League and when we stood on the pitch on the last day against Everton and we'd been beat, we'd have snapped your hand off for that.

"Now we're in it, we've got a top squad, a bit more experience than we had first time around, so we're looking to take it to the next level."

On the prospect of another midweek clash under the lights on home turf, Pope added: "It's something we speak about within the group, because the atmospheres at the home Champions League games are brilliant, with those experiences we've had over the last couple of years.

"A real special night ahead, and a game we look forward to."

The 33-year-old has started the campaign between the sticks for Eddie Howe's side, holding off competition from summer arrival Aaron Ramsdale.

He has been in fine form, too - and admits that he still has hopes of making it back into Thomas Tuchel's England squad for next summer's World Cup finals.

Pope - who went to both the 2018 and 2022 World Cup - says he has spoken to the Three Lions boss since his appointment

"I spoke to him when he took over or soon after he took over the job, and then I've been in regular contact with (England goalkeeping coach) Hilário," he said. "I feel like the communication's been really good, I've really enjoyed having the opportunity to speak to him and to speak to Hilário on a regular basis.

"I feel like I'm in the frame, if you like, and it's something that's not dead so that's always nice to have at the back of your mind.

"I think it's always best to let your football do the talking, and try to keep the ball out the net - I think that's going to stand you in the best stead. Hopefully Dan Burn's putting in a good word as well!"

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