‘We followed Newcastle a little bit’ - Nick Pope on Sir Bobby Robson connection

Nick Pope has revealed his family kept tabs on Newcastle United because of legendary manager Sir Bobby Robson. The England international sealed a £10million switch from Burnley in midweek to become Eddie Howe’s second summer signing.

Growing up as an Ipswich fan, Pope heard tales about the iconic Town sides of the 70s and 80s. Sir Bobby had a 13-year stint at Portman Road, guiding the Blues to FA and UEFA Cup success. A statue of the former manager outside Ipswich’s ground is akin to the one that proudly stands outside of St James’ Park.

Pope paid homage to Robson in his first interview as a Newcastle player while praising the Magpies’ loyal supporters. “I was an Ipswich Town fan growing up,” he told NUFC TV. “I’m a season ticket holder and still watch their games. Sir Bobby is someone who's a massive part of the history of that football club.

“My old man is someone who always spoke incredibly highly of him and (of) what he'd done for the football club. Obviously, when he moved to Newcastle, we as a family followed a little bit.

“I’ve always known Newcastle, from the outside, as a massive football city. A club that, even when things go well or when they’re not going well, the fans stick with the team and try to drag them forward with them.

“From the outside, it’s a club I think everyone would want to be a part of.”