OPINION
Some goalkeepers, no matter how hard they try, seem to be destined for a career as a second choice.
Whether it is because their reputation precedes them, or because they lack the consistency to make it as a number one, they seem to be consigned to a life of FA Cup third rounds and brief spells in the first-team to provide cover during unforeseen injuries.
Karl Darlow is one of these goalkeepers. The Newcastle United man had a decent run in the side a little while ago, but you always got the impression that it was s strictly temporary measure, a makeshift solution until something more permanent could be found.
That proved to be the case, and since Martin Dubravka has come in, there has been little debate over who Rafa Benitez’s number one is.
Beneath him, however, there is definitely a spot up for grabs.
Darlow has been out for a while through injury, but now that he is back, there is a direct competition between him and England youth international Freddie Woodman for the chance to warm the bench at St. James’ Park.
And as assured as Darlow is, he has to be the one sent packing.
Woodman has the potential to be a top, top goalkeeper, but he isn’t going to realise that promise if he can’t even get in the match day squad on Tyneside.
By contrast, Darlow is certainly of an age where he has plateaued, and the £25,000-a-week Magpies shot-stopper [Spotrac] has to be offloaded if his young colleague is to ever make a name for himself at United.
Benitez must take heed or risk making a massive mistake.
