OPINION
For Newcastle United fans across the country and the world the only contract that they care about right now is that of Rafael Benitez.
With a deal that comes to an end this summer the only thing other than Premier League survival which the Toon Army care about is the future of the man in the dugout – and perhaps the future of the man at the very top of the tree at St James’ Park in Mike Ashley.
However, the Magpies should also look at making sure that their top stars are tied down to contracts which reflect their talent, ability and influence in the side and there has perhaps been no one more influential that Martin Dubravka.
Yes, it is difficult for many to recognise how a goalkeeper could make such a difference but you just have to look at the confidence and belief that Newcastle’s defence has gained since his arrival back in January 2018.
He is not only a top quality goalkeeper but a leader at the back and he has an impact on the four or five men lining up just ahead of him on the pitch.
Having penned a deal at the club last summer, many will feel he is not a priority but with Chronicle journalist Mark Douglas claiming that big names like Arsenal and Juventus have been scouting him ahead of a potential move, ensuring he is happy with his terms is a must.
Now Douglas states that Fabricio Coloccini was the last veteran player – Dubravka being 30-years-old – to be handed a serious contract on Tyneside but it is time for Ashley to buck the trend and get the shot stopper tied down in the prime of his career.
Otherwise the Toon Army could see their star man living it large elsewhere come the summer.
