Newcastle have recalled Martin Dubravka from his season-long loan at Manchester United. Dubravka, 33, joined United on deadline day in September and played twice in their League Cup wins over Aston Villa and Burnley but was particularly unconvincing in the latter.
Tom Heaton has been named on the bench in United 's last two Premier League games against Nottingham Forest and Wolves. Dubravka was involved in United's warm-up at Molineux on New Year's Eve.
Third-placed Newcastle are only two points clear of United, who have a game in hand. United paid a £2million loan fee and had an obligation to buy Dubravka for £6m if he had started certain number of league games.
United are yet to decide on whether to recruit a replacement. Heaton, 36, and Nathan Bishop will provide back-up for first-choice David de Gea.
Heaton rejoined United in July 2021 on the understanding he would be second choice to Dean Henderson but then-manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's indecision and the club's failure to offload De Gea resulted in Heaton spending almost the entirety of the season as third-choice.
The United academy graduate came on for his debut against Young Boys in United's final Champions League group stage game last season but is yet to make his full debut.
United host Bournemouth and Everton in the Premier League this week before a home tie against Charlton in the League Cup fourth round next week.
Vaaaben
0
United need to sign alternative to Dubravka. Heaton as a back up to DDG is little suspicious. United need to extend contract of DDG to clear uncertainty. Dean Henderson should be sold for reasonable sum to finance new recruitment for back up to Gea.
AmoGmanchester
0
But but why did we get him in the first place, our club hierarchy should pull up the socks to study properly the new comers this is why we always fail in getting powerful players
Magpie_Fan
0
Good
kbsarpong
0
I think Everton's game is FA cup or ...?
Nnoruka
0
better because I don't understand the guy
Daeadntz
3
Top 4 matter they're playing for top 4 man united playing for for top 4 they're were right to recall him👏