Pope recently arrived at Newcastle from Burnley for £10million and is expected to provide direct competition for Dubravka, who has been the number one choice at St James’s Park since 2018.
We’ve looked at the stats and will compare the two goalkeepers. But as Pope has played 141 Premier League games to Dubravka’s 127, we will be using stats as a per-game average in an attempt to balance out Pope’s 14 game advantage.
While it can be debated which player is the superior goalkeeper, statistics are not quite as subjective.
And Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe faces a potential selection dilemma between the sticks next season, but which player will get the nod?
13. High claims: Pope
The 30-year-old boasts a strong aerial presence, averaging 1.33 high claims per match, significantly more than Dubravka’s 0.84 average. | Getty Images
14. Punches: Dubravka
Dubravka just edges out Pope when it comes to average punches per match with 0.41 to 0.40. Photo: LINDSEY PARNABY
15. Winner: Pope
With a score of 10-4, Pope has secured a comfortable win when it comes to the key statistical areas for a goalkeeper. But will he be Eddie Howe’s first choice come August 6? Photo: OLI SCARFF