Steve Bruce confirms imminent Newcastle United decision on Martin Dubravka

Steve Bruce has dropped a big hint on his Newcastle United starting XI.
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Karl Darlow, a Premier League ever-present this season, is under pressure from No.1 Dubravka, who returned to fitness late last year after recovering from a heel operation.

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Asked if Dubravka was close to a recall, head coach Bruce said: “Like every position, I’ve got a decision to make.

"Let’s make one thing pretty clear, though. Karl has done fantastically well. Our goalkeeper – who was our player of the year for the last two years – has been missing for six months. He only came back on December 31. So What a fantastic job Karl’s done.

"So, of course I’ve got to make decisions, but then again those decisions are ultimately what you get paid for. I have to do what I think is right for the team. Of course, Karl’s done fantastically well. You have a pick a team every week, so you’re disappointing 14/15 people.

"I’ve always said that’s the hardest part of the job is to make sure those players who aren’t playing … how you look after them and how you make sure they’re part of the squad.”

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Newcastle are 17th in the Premier League – and three points above the relegation zone – ahead of the fixture against 12th-placed Wolves. The club has won two of its last five games.

Martin Dubravka.Martin Dubravka.
Martin Dubravka.

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