Former Premier League referee Keith Hackett has called on the governing bodies to delay Nick Pope’s cup-final suspension. A foolish handball outside of the area left Anthony Taylor with no option but to dismiss the goalkeeper in Newcastle United’s 2-0 defeat to Liverpool.
Pope has been one of the Magpies’ star performers since his £10million arrival from Burnley last summer. The England international’s performances have resulted in Newcastle conceding just 15 top-flight goals this season - the fewest in the division.
However, Toon supporters gasped as soon as the incident happened as a red card appeared inevitable. At that point, the immediate fixture was the last thing on fans’ minds with the Carabao Cup final up next.
READ MORE: Gary Lineker leads Newcastle plea for Nick Pope ban to be overturned after Liverpool 'anomaly'
Unless the Magpies appeal, which is unlikely, Pope must serve a one-match suspension - ruling him out of the Wembley showdown. To make matters worse, backup option Martin Dubravka, who came on against Liverpool, is cup-tied due to representing Manchester United in an earlier round.
With Karl Darlow out on loan, Newcastle will call upon either Loris Karius or Mark Gillespie to fill the void. Neither goalie has played a competitive fixture for two years - dealing Eddie Howe a huge blow ahead of the cup final.
There are pleas - albeit triggered by wishful thinking - from supporters to allow Pope the chance to play this weekend. However, a figure of substance has now urged the EFL and Football Association to give the 30-year-old a pass.
Ex-referee Hackett, who also chaired the PGMOL in the 00s, believes Pope’s suspension should be delayed so he can play the final. He tweeted: “Football can be very cruel and sadly because of a few seconds of almost doing something naturally Nick Pope misses a final.
“The referee was correct to dismiss Pope. The authorities should delay the sanction to enable Pope to play. There I have said it.”
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