Eddie Howe Says it ‘makes no sense’ for Newcastle to sell goalkeeper Martin Dubravka while he’s still in the squad – but hasn’t ruled out a January exit.
Mail Sport revealed last week The club that will allow the Slovakian to decide on his future next month is an offer from Saudi Arabia’s al-Shabaab.
However, the situation is complicated with knee injury number 1 Nick PopeAnd he’s not expected back until the latter half of January.
Dubravka, who turns 36 next month, has started the last three games and is on the line for the next five, including one Carabao Cup Against the first leg of the semi-final Arsenal.
Howe was asked on Friday whether the club could approve a move under the current circumstances.
“Obviously, we don’t want to lose the goalkeeper who is currently playing for us, it doesn’t make sense,” said the head coach. ‘So, no, it’s not a deal we want to ratify at this time.’
Eddie Howe (right) does not want Newcastle to approve the sale of Martin Dubravka (left)
Dubravka is currently playing in the absence of Nick Pope who is currently out with a knee injury
Pope is not expected to be fit until the end of January, complicating any move for Dubravka
If the Pope were to go to Dubravka while he was fit, would there be any chance of a replacement?
‘Well, those are the questions we have to find out,’ said Howe. ‘As I say, Martin’s situation is not clear, let’s wait and see what happens in the next few weeks.
But he must be doing very well. I am really pleased with his reintroduction into the team. I think he gave us composure, composure, he made some really good saves. Let’s not forget that he scored 1-0 against Ipswich, which was a big moment of the game.
So I am happy with the way he is playing. He’s in our sights at the moment and is doing great.’
