Eddie Howe denies claims about Martin Dubravka’s behind the scenes Newcastle United demands

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Martin Dubravka has a battle on his hands at Newcastle United again.

Dubravka has impressed for Newcastle since replacing Nick Pope in the starting lineup back in December.

Indeed, Newcastle even blocked Dubravka’s move to Saudi Arabia as a result, such was the level of his form.

Still, Pope was back on the bench for Newcastle against Southampton, which gives manager Eddie Howe food for thought.

Dropping Dubravka after his recent run of good form would seem harsh, particularly given the U-turn over his future. Pope, however, has been Howe’s undisputed No.1 since his arrival from Burnley.

Speaking on Friday, Howe revealed the latest on Dubravka at Newcastle.

Eddie Howe confirms Martin Dubravka latest at Newcastle

The Newcastle United manager confirmed the club were in talks with Dubravka over a new contract.

Howe also confirmed the goalkeeper has sought no assurances about a guaranteed first-team role now Pope has returned from injury.

Reports claimed Dubravka had demanded assurances he would be offered the chance to compete with Pope.

However, Howe revealed: “Martin won’t leave. We’re in discussions with Martin over a new contract, and hopefully there’ll be a swift conclusion there.

“But he hasn’t sought any certainties on his place, or anything beyond trying to stay in the team and do well.”

Nick Pope and Martin Dubravka’s stats compared this season

Dubravka has actually outperformed Pope in various aspects this season, albeit Newcastle’s improvement as a team as a whole since the defeat at Brentford in which Pope was injured cannot be understated.

Still, Dubravka boasts a better save percentage, clean sheet percentage and a much better pass completion rate when compared to the England man.

That’s not to say he’s necessarily a better goalkeeper but it does emphasise what a tough decision Howe has on his hands. Keeping Dubravka in place would not just be doing him a favour after staying at the club, the 36-year-old is really proving his worth.

Dubravka is expected to start for Newcastle against Fulham. Beyond that, it’s going to be fascinating to see what happens.