Karl Darlow could consider his situation at Newcastle United this summer should he continue to play second fiddle to Martin Dubravka, according to former Aston Villa striker Gabby Agbonlahor.
What’s the story?
Speaking to Football Insider, Agbonlahor has suggested the 30-year-old could reassess this summer.
“Darlow could be back in, in two games time. Dubravka could make some mistakes,” he said.
“I’m sure he’ll be happy to be at a club like Newcastle. Things can change dramatically in football, we all know that.
“So I’m sure he’ll wait until the end of the season, see what his game time is and then make a choice.
“He’s a good keeper but he’s not indispensable to the club. If he wanted to leave I’m sure the club would say ‘no problem’.
“It’s not as if it’s Saint-Maximin or one of the top, top players who the club wouldn’t want to lose.”
Dropped after the loss to Manchester United back in February despite an excellent campaign, The Times did claim that Darlow was angry with his situation. Indeed, the former Nottingham Forest custodian had been praised after big performances against the likes of Tottenham and Liverpool amid calls for him to be included in the England squad.
Could we blame him?
It’d be hard to.
As he proved earlier this season, Darlow is a Premier League level goalkeeper, it’s just unfortunate for him that Martin Dubravka is the competition. While Steve Bruce did blame him for his role in Wolves’ gutting equaliser during his comeback game, the 32-year-old did pull off a crucial save to ensure his side came away with a point.
A top class stopper who made the most saves in the Premier League last season, Dubravka is also thought to be a leader behind the scenes.
The Verdict
It wouldn’t be much of a surprise to see Darlow try to leave in the summer if Newcastle remain in the Premier League. Still, should they go down, perhaps interest in Dubravka will emerge considering his links to the likes of PSG before, so Darlow might be called upon more regularly.
With Freddie Woodman also to consider, the goalkeeping department is one of few at St. James’ Park the club don’t necessarily have to worry about right now, although dropping back into the Championship could obviously change that.
Either way, Darlow did sign a new six-year contract back in September, so at least the club can approach any attempts to leave from a position of strength.
