Steve Bruce reveals view on Karl Darlow and Martin Dubravka decision at Newcastle United

Martin Dubravka could be recalled to Newcastle United’s starting XI for Wolverhampton Wanderers’s visit to St James’s Park.
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Darlow, a Premier League ever-present for the relegation-threatened club this season, has kept his place since Martin Dubravka, the club’s No.1, returned to fitness late last year.

The 30-year-old – who signed a new five-year deal earlier this season – performed very well in the absence through injury of Dubravka, but Steve Bruce says that Darlow will be “disappointed” after being beaten at his near post in last night’s 3-1 defeat to Manchester United at Old Trafford.

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“Karl Darlow has had a magnificent season so far,” said United's head coach. “He’ll be disappointed with the first goal in particular, because, obviously, it’s the cardinal sin to let one in at the near post.

“Whether I’ve got a decision (to make), I’ve not even thought about that yet. I haven’t even thought about that decision just yet.”

Dubravka, previously an ever-present for Newcastle in the Premier League, had surgery on a heel injury last summer, and returned to the bench in late December.

The 32-year-old has been pushing to return to the starting XI, but Bruce, up to now, has been loyal to Darlow given his performances between the posts.

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However, Bruce will “look at the goalkeeper” ahead of the game against 11th-placed Wolves. Newcastle are just three points above the relegation zone.

Karl Darlow and Jamaal Lascelles speak to referee Paul Tierney at Old Trafford.Karl Darlow and Jamaal Lascelles speak to referee Paul Tierney at Old Trafford.
Karl Darlow and Jamaal Lascelles speak to referee Paul Tierney at Old Trafford.

“We'll have a look at the goalkeeper,” said Bruce. “He (Darlow) will be disappointed to be beaten at the near post for the first goal."

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