Martin Dubravka raised the eyebrows of the Newcastle United faithful when he swapped St. James’ Park for Old Trafford last season.
After being sought to play second-fiddle to David de Gea at Manchester United following Dean Henderson’s Nottingham Forest move, Dubravka went on to make just two appearances for the Reds in his loan spell – both of which came in the Carabao Cup.
He was then recalled by Newcastle on the first day of the January transfer window, with Eddie Howe later confirming that the Slovakian has requested that his parent club cut the season-long deal early after just four months.
United went on to acquire Jack Butland for the remainder of the term and in the summer, when Henderson left for Crystal Palace permanently, they signed Turkish international Altay Bayindir to provide backup to Andre Onana.
Meanwhile, Dubravka has finally been granted his chance for some regular game-time due to Nick Pope’s layoff from a dislocated shoulder. The England shot-stopper will always be Howe’s first choice when fit, so Dubravka must relish the time he gets between the sticks until the No.1 returns.
Dubravka on Newcastle return
Reflecting on his particularly underwhelming stint in M16, Dubrakva explained (via Newcastle World): “I didn’t know [I’d be back at Newcastle]. I said many times I only went there [Manchester United] because it was a bigger chance for me to play. I can understand why some of the fans might think I jumped but I felt at the time I needed to go there.
“I don’t regret any of my decision. I learned a lot from that move but it’s good to be back. I’ve spent five and half years here, I feel at home. The city and club means something to me, and my son was born here so it’s a special connection for me. It’s good to be on the pitch again.”
