Freddie Woodman still has hopes of earning a regular first-team berth at Newcastle United.
What’s the story?
Speaking to The Athletic, the 23-year-old revealed he is eager to ‘kick on’ in his career and would relish a chance as The Magpies’ No.1 in the future.
“As happy as I am to have played those games, deep down, I want more. I see (Karl) Darlow doing really well now and I’ve watched Martin (Dubravka), Tim Krul, Steve Harper; all these goalies have played so many games”, he said.
“I think to myself, ‘I’d love to do that, to go out and play in front of 52,000 for such a massive club and rack up the games.
“I look back and appreciate playing for such a big club but I also think, ‘Come on, I want to experience so much more and kick on’. It makes me super excited for what’s to come.”
Does he have much of a chance?
It’s promising to hear he’s still committed to making a go of it on Tyneside.
Indeed, given the form of both Dubravka last season and Darlow this time out, it does look like it’ll be difficult for him anytime soon. The former made the most saves in the Premier League over the 2019/20 campaign while the latter has been highly praised so far this year, even keeping Dubravka out of the picture despite his return to fitness.
How is he getting on at Swansea?
Considering he’s previously been linked with the likes of Arsenal and Tottenham, Woodman’s form while on loan in South Wales is likely to have at least caught the eyes of other potential suitors.
According to FBRef, only former teammate Tim Krul has a higher save percentage than him in the Championship this season (80.9%) while Woodman also boasts the lowest goals-against him per game average across the second division (0.52). Impressively, he also leads the way in terms of clean sheet percentage, with 80.9%.
The Verdict
It’s really good to see he still harbours aspirations of becoming No.1 at St. James’ Park.
Given the lack of game-time offered to him since he made his debut in 2018 (making only three more appearances at senior level) it would be easy for him to lose heart and look to move on.
If there’s one area Newcastle boast strength in depth, it is certainly in the goalkeeping department. If they can keep Woodman on track in the years to come, the options between the sticks doesn’t look like it’ll be a problem in the years to come.
