Karl Darlow has England call in his sights – but knows he must win Martin Dubravka battle at Newcastle United first

The 30-year-old has been the Magpies’ stand-out performer of the 2020/21 season, stepping up the plate in the absence of United No1 Martin Dubravka.

His impressive performances have led to some asking about a potential England call – and Darlow, who also qualifies for Wales, admits it is an aim of his to make the step to international football.

But Darlow knows, in order to do that, he needs to keep his levels up, with Slovak Dubravka now back fit and waiting in the wings.

“It is a target that is hopefully achievable,” he said when asked about an England call-up.

“It needs to keep me motivated. I need to keep my performances to a high standard.

“To be honest, I have to concentrate on keeping myself in the team here. There is added pressures everywhere.

“I’ll just take it on, keep enjoying it and look forward to what is to come.”

On his Newcastle United performances, Darlow told Sky Sports: “I was always waiting for the opportunity. I was never sure when it would come, or if it would come.

“I just had to be patient, work as hard as I could then be ready when the opportunity came through, to prove that I am good enough to play for Newcastle at this level.”

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