Callum Wilson has paid tribute to all of Newcastle United’s goalkeepers amid the club’s current situation, and has described Karl Darlow as ‘unbelievable’.
The Magpies are currently preparing for the Carabao Cup final, where Callum Wilson will hope to return to the starting XI.
There will also be a change in goal, with Nick Pope set to miss the game due to suspension. It is a devastating blow for Newcastle, and Eddie Howe will now have to turn to his reserve options.
Loris Karius is going to be the man to get the nod. That is because Martin Dubravka is cup-tied, while Karl Darlow has gone on loan to Hull City.
Following his move to the Tigers, Wilson has heaped praise on the 32-year-old stopper.
Callum Wilson assesses Newcastle’s goalkeeper options
Wilson has spoke about Newcastle’s goalkeeper situation on the latest episode of the Footballer’s Football Podcast, and commented on Darlow’s ability.
“We’ve got a squad of goalkeepers which is to our advantage, really,” he said.
“You have top class goalies, albeit they have not played competitive matches and as much as they would have liked.
“In training you train with them daily and these guys are top guys. You put them in the goal the you are doing your finishing sessions because you want a good test.
“You’ve got Karius, he’s played in finals before. Darlow who was unbelievable for us, who has gone out on loan now – he’s not available. You have Dubravka, who’s been unbelievable and instrumental to our success last season. And even though these guys aren’t available that’s the competition that we have got.
“Amongst them you have Mark Gillespie who, all of a sudden, finds himself on the bench when he’s probably been fifth choice and such a good pro that you are happy for people to get that opportunity.”
Karl Darlow was great for Newcastle
Had Darlow not joined Hull City on transfer deadline day, he would be challenging Karius to start at Wembley on Sunday.
But instead he is preparing for a Championship game against Bristol City. He is yet to make his debut for his new club, having spent the previous four games on the bench.
Newcastle do not have the option to recall him from his loan spell, which means Howe will have to go with either Karius or Mark Gillespie for the cup final.
Having Darlow still at the club would have been a boost, as he is a brilliant goalkeeper. Wilson knows all about Darlow’s ability, having played alongside him at St James’ Park for years.
His first season as a Newcastle player was the season that Darlow was first choice, and he was outstanding. His performances almost earned him an England callup.
Now Darlow has left, and will watch Sunday’s final knowing that he would have been involved had he not decided to leave last month.
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