Martin Dubravka now speaks publicly after Nick Pope picks up injury for Newcastle

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Newcastle United were dealt yet another injury blow on Saturday night.

While Anthony Gordon starred as Newcastle beat Manchester United for the third time in a row, Eddie Howe lost yet another key star.

Indeed, Nick Pope was forced off with what looked like a dislocated shoulder and Howe has since confirmed he could require surgery.

Naturally, there are fears he could be out of action for while, leading to links with a shock move for David De Gea.

Still, Newcastle do have an option to turn to already at the club. Martin Dubravka came on for Pope and will surely be the first-choice until at least the January transfer window gives the club the chance to sign a replacement.

Now, he has spoken.

Nick Pope injury: Martin Dubravka speaks on Newcastle teammate

Speaking after his cameo, Dubravka told The Chronicle: “It is good to be on the pitch obviously but not in these circumstances. I wish Nick a speedy recovery.

“I know how it is to be injured and it’s not nice so that was part of it for me on Saturday night. But it is good that we won at least.”

Martin Dubravka: Newcastle can rely on goalkeeper

Howe was impressed with Dubravka’s efforts when he came on late.

While Pope has eclipsed him since joining from Burnley, its important to remember just how good the 34-year-old can be.

So good at times during both the Rafa Benitez and Steve Bruce eras at Newcastle, he’s hardly a risky stand-in.

Perhaps Dubravka cannot match Pope at his best but its not as if the England international has been totally convincing all season, albeit he has improved recently.

There are big games to come for Newcastle. Luckily, all of the stand-ins thus far have stepped up and there is little reason to suggest Dubravka cannot follow them.