Newcastle United are so close to return to Wembley.
Eddie Howe’s side made it seven consecutive victories on Tuesday night, running out 2-0 winners at Arsenal to take a huge advantage back to St James’ Park next month.
It means Newcastle have one foot in the Carabao Cup final, hoping to avenge their defeat to Manchester United at that stage in 2023.
It was another fantastic performance from Howe’s side. They were brilliant throughout, taking the lead through Alexander Isak before Anthony Gordon doubled the advantage.
Newcastle defended excellently throughout and limited the Gunners to very few chances. While no one will be getting too carried away just yet, it was a statement display against a very good team.
It may have been a particularly emotional evening for Martin Dubravka, too.
The goalkeeper is reportedly set to leave the club imminently for Al-Shabab in Saudi Arabia and his reaction at full-time may have offered a fresh hint.
What Martin Dubravka was seen doing immediately after Newcastle beat Arsenal
Indeed, Jordan Cronin of Newcastle World (via social media platform X) captured footage of Dubravka standing alone in front of the Newcastle away end, clapping them for their support.
Given all the exit links, it’s difficult not to take that as a potential goodbye.
How much will Newcastle get for Martin Dubravka?
It will be a shame to see Dubravka go. While Nick Pope is undoubtedly Howe’s first-choice when fit, the 35-year-old has been a great servant for the club since arriving in 2018.
With Pope injured of late, the Slovakian has been in fine form too.
Still, Newcastle need to raise money through player sales and he will be out of contract this summer anyway.
According to Ben Jacobs, Newcastle will bank between £5-6million for Dubravka, so it certainly makes sense from a financial perspective.
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