Newcastle defender Dan Burn has sung the praises of goalkeeper Nick Pope.

Burn says Pope has been a key influence on their successful top four push.

"He's just a top keeper Popey," he told ChronicleLive. "I don't think much knocks him. At the end of the game against Brentford, he cleared one and blocked the cross so that's the risk that he takes.

"But he's always good for us as that last line of defence and yeah, he's been a really big player this season. It's huge for us and helps as we do keep a high line and yeah it's a risk but more often than not he gets it right."

On facing Aston Villa today, he added: "It's huge, we were a bit slow starting after the winter break but now we've settled into a rhythm and it keeps coming thick and fast.

"With three games that quick and to pick up maximum points shows the character and togetherness in the squad."