Back of the net! England goalkeeper buys one of York City’s goals

Former York City goalkeeper Nick Pope has bought one of the goals and netting from Bootham Crescent.

The England international goalkeeper attributes much of his current success to his loan spell with the Minstermen, keeping 16 clean sheets in just 24 appearances in 2013-14.

Now playing for Premier League’s Burnley, he will continue to keep his goal safe in his garden over in the North West.

Speaking to BBC Radio York, he said: “I’ve not transported it yet and that’s still in discussions. I thought we’d cross that bridge if I won the bid and then I did and I’m still not sure how we’re going to do it.

“I bid on it because it coincided with my garden getting renovated and I just thought there was a nice space at the end for it.

“I thought it would be a good thing to help the club if I won the bid and if someone else outbid me then that would be more money for them.

“I still follow them on social media and keep an eye on the results. They played an important part in my career so it’s nice to keep an eye on them.”

But the last thing Pope is going to use his purchase for is more goalkeeping practice away from the Clarets’ Barnfield training ground – he plans to live out his dreams of being a striker.

“I think every goalkeeper dreams of being an outfield player growing up so I’ll chuck someone else in goal and have shots at them. They don’t let me do that in training,” he added.

“It probably is unusual for a goalkeeper to have a goal in their garden. I don’t want too many of my friends coming round and ruining my garden, I’ll have to be selective.”

A York City FC spokesman said: “The club would like to thank Nick for his continued support and look forward to welcoming him to the new stadium when possible.”