Eddie Howe says £4m Newcastle player is getting better every week despite criticism

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Eddie Howe always wants his Newcastle United players to improve, and that has certainly been the case with Martin Dubravka.

The 35-year-old has been Newcastle’s first choice goalkeeper since Nick Pope got injured, but it has not all been plain sailing for the Slovakian.

There was initially a lot of scepticism from fans. Dubravka‘s first few performances were not great, leading to criticism from the media. For example, David Seaman was not impressed with the goalkeeper’s display during the defeat to Tottenham Hotspur.

It led to speculation that he could be replaced, with Newcastle potentially signing a goalkeeper during the January transfer window.

But that has not happened, with Dubravka suddenly finding his feet back in the side and getting back to his best. He has been excellent in recent weeks, and Eddie Howe is delighted with how well the £4million man is playing.

Eddie Howe pleased with Martin Dubravka

Ahead of Newcastle’s game against Aston Villa, Howe spoke to the media. He was asked about Dubravka’s improving form.

“I think Martin’s done very well,” he said.

“If you look back at the Fulham game he made a key save for us. It was a really big moment in the game. It was a good reach from him. I thought he distributed the ball well as he always does.

“He’s a really experienced goalkeeper. He’s a really good role model and teammate. He trains really well.

“I’m delighted with how he’s responded to the challenge in front of him because he hadn’t played for a while and it was always going to be difficult to find your best rhythm straight away. I think he’s improving week on week.”

Dubravka is saving Newcastle millions

The save that Howe is referring to against Fulham was top class. He did incredibly well to deny Rodrigo Muniz when the game was 0-0.

It was a pivotal moment as Dubravka continues his strong run of form. He was also excellent in defeat to Liverpool and during the Tyne-Wear derby win over Sunderland.

His form has allowed Newcastle to change their transfer plans, with a new goalkeeper no longer a priority. The likes of David De Gea and Aaron Ramsdale were initially linked, but they have not been mentioned for weeks. That is all the proof you need that Newcastle’s search for a goalkeeper is off.

Dubravka is getting better week after week, and that is excellent news as Pope continues his injury layoff.