Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe admits Nick Pope was disappointed missing England selection last week.

Howe, however, says the goalkeeper has transformed the team since his arrival last year.

He said, "It's a difficult one. I can't speak for Nick but whenever I've seen him train and play he is a highly motivated individual. He always wants to train, he always wants to play, and put himself forward to do more.

"He wants to maximise every moment in his career. I'd say he is a highly driven and motivated individual.

"His last two displays have been very, very good and I think that is the Nick we saw for the most part last season. He is a difference maker when he plays like that.

"He transformed our backline and gave everyone confidence, not just with the saves but how he distributed the ball too."