While the focus is currently on a busy schedule of club football, attention will soon be on the England national team as they kick off their World Cup campaign in mid-November. Here is a look at several Newcastle players who could play a significant role for Gareth Southgate in Qatar 2022.
Kieran Trippier
It is no secret that Kieran Trippier has been in fine form in 2022/23. Trippier was the first signing of the new owners, a statement of ambition and intent that has certainly paid off. With a goal, an assist and three clean sheets to his name, Trippier has largely been responsible for us keeping up with the so-called ‘big six’ this season. His contributions to Gareth Southgate’s squads need no introduction – we all remember THAT free-kick against Croatia in 2018.
Despite England’s plethora of options at right back, Southgate will likely utilise Kieran for his experience, leadership and versatility, either from the bench or deployed on the left-hand side. The Three Lions kick off their campaign against Iran, a game which you can bet on with Paddy Power. They offer 2022 World Cup betting on anything from individual results to outright finishes, as well as following England’s journey by providing World Cup tips on all things Three Lions. England and Newcastle fans alike will hope that this journey succeeds for the first time since 1966 and that Trippier can play a big part along the way.
I’m so happy to be joining Newcastle. Everyone knows the fans are unbelievably passionate and I will give my absolute all for them. I can’t wait to get to work 💪🏼
— Kieran Trippier (@trippier2) January 7, 2022
Thank you to everyone at @nufc & the fans for the very warm welcome I have received so far 🖤🤍 pic.twitter.com/6d0raRrpnv
Nick Pope
Another signing of the new era on Tyneside, Nick Pope has also been a key figure in Newcastle’s fine defensive displays in 2022/23. With three clean sheets, Nick was rewarded by starting both Nations League games against Italy and Germany. Unfortunately for Pope and England, it didn’t quite go to plan, as the Three Lions picked up just one point from those two games and Pope made several errors.
This dip in form has made England drop down the rankings of favourites, with Paddy Power now offering them 13/2 odds to go on and win the tournament. With England out of form the trophy is certainly up for grabs, although unfortunately for Nick Pope, the first-team goalkeeping position probably isn’t. His displays in the Nations League mean he is likely to remain on the bench for Qatar 2022 and will be prepared to be utilised as Jordan Pickford’s replacement when needed.
Back-to-back FUN88 Player of the Month awards for Nick Pope!
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) October 5, 2022
Congrats, @Popey1992! 💪
Callum Wilson
Even the most diehard of Newcastle fans wouldn’t expect Callum Wilson to start for England, given that Harry Kane is the nation’s captain and first name on the team sheet. However, should Kane pick up a knock, there would be a centre-forward-shaped gap in the starting eleven.
As with right-back, England has a multitude of options in this position, with the likes of Abraham, Toney and Watkins also vying for the same spot. However, with 20 Premier League goals over the last two seasons, and another three in five league appearances in 2022/23, few offer Wilson’s prowess in front of goal. If Southgate is looking for a killer number 9 in the absence of Harry Kane, Callum is his man.
Good start to the new season, 3 points and opening day goal 🙌🏽 now onto the next with plenty room for improvements still 🖤🤍 pic.twitter.com/2ARZjrHcCU
— Callum Wilson (@CallumWilson) August 6, 2022
Given this season’s busy schedule, injuries will undoubtedly open the door for several players to feature in Qatar 2022. Before that point, though, Trippier and co. will have to make sure they are fully fit themselves to take the Toon back to where we belong – playing European football.