NEWCASTLE UNITED manager Eddie Howe has admitted he might have to move on one of Newcastle’s four senior goalkeepers in the next few weeks.

As well as summer signing Nick Pope, who started Saturday’s season-opening win over Nottingham Forest, the Magpies also boast Martin Dubravka, Karl Darlow and Mark Gillespie on their books, and Howe will not be including four goalkeepers in his final Premier League squad.

“I certainly wouldn’t want anyone to leave, but I’m well aware that four (keepers) is a difficult number to carry,” said Howe. “My wish would be to do that, but obviously we’ve got to think of the players as well. Hopefully, we’ll make the right decision.”

Dubravka was Newcastle's number one goalkeeper last season, but the Slovakian found himself on the bench at the weekend, with Darlow not even featuring in Howe's matchday squad.

Pope got the nod to start following his summer move from Burnley, and while the England international did not have a lot to do in terms of saving shots, he impressed when it came to collecting crosses and dominating his 18-yard box.

Howe was delighted with the debutant's performance, but admits the decision to name Pope in the starting side was his toughest selection call ahead of the opening game of the season.

"It (goalkeeper) was a very difficult decision," he said. "I feel I’ve got three quality keepers to pick from with Karl, Nick and Martin.

"Last season, Martin was excellent, and my decision to pick Nick certainly wasn’t a reflection on him (Dubravka), his abilities or my thoughts on him.

"I thought Nick was excellent. You could see his ability to come and collect crosses, and I thought he commanded his box very well. He didn’t have a lot to do with his hands, and that’s a good sign.

"There’s competition for places in that position, and that strength will help us through the season."