EDDIE HOWE has admitted he faces a “tough call” over whether to recall Martin Dubravka for his first game as Newcastle United manager tomorrow afternoon.
The Magpies host Brentford at St James’ Park, and since his appointment was confirmed a week-and-a-half ago, Howe has spent his time pondering the make-up for his first starting line-up.
One of his key decisions will come in goal, with Dubravka having been sidelined since sustaining a foot injury while representing Slovakia at this summer’s European Championships.
Having previously been firmly established as Newcastle’s number one, the 32-year-old has not featured for the club at all this season, but he proved his wellbeing as he played the full 90 minutes of Slovakia’s World Cup qualifying win over Malta last weekend.
In his absence, Karl Darlow has started Newcastle’s last seven games, and Howe admits he will have to make a difficult decision when it comes to finalising his starting side.
“Dubravka played (during the international break),” said Howe. “Is he 100 per cent fit? That remains to be seen. That was his first game in a long, long time, so I’ve got a tough call to make there.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here