Report: Newcastle have concerns about Mark Gillespie’s ability

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The future of Mark Gillespie at Newcastle United is unknown this summer.

The goalkeeper is one of multiple players who could leave St James’ Park, as Eddie Howe looks to reshuffle his squad.

It’s the first summer transfer window since the change of ownership, and the Newcastle squad could look very different by the end of August.

The likes of Matt Ritchie and Dwight Gayle feel certain to leave, while there are others such as Jamaal Lascelles who is being linked with an exit.

But what does the future hold for third choice stopper Gillespie?

Doubts over how good Mark Gillespie is

Newcastle have been heavily linked with signing a new goalkeeper this summer. Dean Henderson has reportedly held talks over a move to St James’ Park.

This has increased speculation that there will be a changes to the Magpies’ goalkeeping ranks. However, Gillespie should keep his place in the squad.

The Athletic write that the 30-year-old is seen as the ideal third choice keeper and is well liked at the club. Yet there are doubts over his quality in between the sticks.

The report adds that there are some concerns at Newcastle over his ability and whether or not he’d be good enough to play in the Premier League.

Worth keeping him at Newcastle for now

Having came through the club’s academy but let go at 16, Gillespie returned to Newcastle in 2020. He arrived on a free after being released by Motherwell.

Despite being back at the club for two years, Gillespie is yet to make his Premier League debut. He’s made three first-team appearances for the club, all of which came in the League Cup in 2020.

It looked like Gillespie could get a chance last season, with Martin Dubravka and Karl Darlow ruled out at the start of the campaign. However, the local lad continued to remain in reserve as Freddie Woodman got an opportunity. That was hardly a ringing indictment of the club’s faith in Gillespie.

However, as the Athletic report, he is ideal as a third choice goalkeeper. He probably relishes the chance to be back at his boyhood club and living closer to his family.

There will be changes to Newcastle’s goalkeeping ranks this summer, but Gillespie should remain at St James’ Park. That’s despite the fact some at the club don’t think he’s good enough to be a Premier League stopper.