Newcastle United have turned a corner with their form since January, with the impact of loanees Kenedy and Martin Dubravka proving to be crucial in the revival of Rafael Benitez’s side.
A superb performance in the recent 1-0 victory over Huddersfield Town has put the Magpies on the brink of securing their Premier League status for another season, whilst it saw Slovakian stopper Dubravka keep another clean sheet.
Signed from Sparta Prague in January, Dubravka quickly impressed on his debut with Manchester United and it’s understood that Newcastle have an option to make a switch permanent in the summer- and a former fan favourite has urged them to ensure that happens.
Speaking to Sky Sports, former Newcastle goalkeeper Shay Given said:
“His debut against Manchester United was Roy of the Rovers stuff. Coming to a new country, new language, new league and he looked like he had been there for 10 years. It was a fantastic debut and I think it has given the whole team and football club a lift with his positivity, whether that be coming to collect crosses and or making some vital saves.”
“When you do make a big save up there, the crowd is amazing, It’s nearly like scoring a goal – they’re up behind you and you get huge support. Rafa was wanting a ‘keeper for the last 18 months and it’s only a loan deal, but he would be mad not to die him down on a long-term deal.”
Dubravka, 29, has kept three clean sheets in five Premier League appearances so far.
