Newcastle United goalkeeper Nick Pope is set to be in Eddie Howe's squad for the trip to Southampton this weekend.

The England international has not featured since the 4-2 loss to Brentford in December when he suffered a knee injury. Martin Dubravka has been a more than able deputy for Pope and has played so well he has earned a new contract with the Magpies.

But Pope, who has trained this week, is close to selection and will potentially take a place on the bench against the Saints. Howe, speaking at his pre-match press conference, said: "There's a chance he'll be in the squad. He's started training with the group again and it's great to see Nick back and his presence, the positivity that he brings.

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"I've seen him do some really good things this week, so yeah, delighted to have him back in the mix."

Despite conceding four goals against AFC Bournemouth, Dubravka has earned the right to keep his place and Pope will have to unearth him from the number 1 spot.

Howe all but confirmed that Dubravka has agreed to stay on Tyneside after a month long concern that he would leave to join Al-Shabab. The head coach said: "Yeah, I believe talks have progressed well. I am not 100% sure where they stand right now, but I think we are moving forward together."

Speaking about the battle for the number 1 jersey, Howe said: "It doesn't matter whether you are a goalkeeper or any other position, we need players performing at their best levels. I will always pick the best one."

Pope's absence has shone a light on the role of Greek international Odysseas Vlachodimos in the last six weeks. The ex-Nottingham Forest man, who Newcastle are believed to have paid £20million for in June, has been fully fit but did not get a chance to deputise against Bromley in the FA Cup casting doubt over his future.

Al-Shabab have also been linked with a move for the ex-Benfica man. Howe said: "I am not ruling anything out in terms of players leaving but certainly not our core, established players. But there might be movement for certain other players."