Predicting England's World Cup Squad

21. Nick Pope

England Under 21 manager Gareth Southgate during the squad announcement at St George's Park, Burton upon Trent.
Charltonkyle [CC BY-SA 4.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

Over the course of the last four friendly matches, Gareth Southgate has been unsure on his No. 1 goalkeeper, and with good reason. The England manager has three impressive young shot-stoppers to choose from.

With the news that Joe Hart looks set to miss the cut, Nick Pope is guaranteed a place on the plane. Since the Burnley keeper is still at the beginning of his career, and will likely be fighting for England’s No. 1 shirt for years to come, this kind of tournament experience would be priceless, even if he doesn't get any actual game time.

Pope himself has eclipsed all expectation this season, stepping into the Burnley side for the injured England No. 1 hopeful Tom Heaton. At just 25 years old, the man who started the season as Burnley's No. 2 goalkeeper has played an integral role in the club reaching European football.

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