Newcastle boss Howe eager to hang onto goalkeeper Dubravka

AFP | London

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Newcastle manager Eddie Howe still hopes goalkeeper Martin Dubravka will stay at St James’ Park beyond the end of the January transfer window.

The in-form 35-year-old Slovakia international has been heavily linked with a move to Saudi Pro League side Al Shabab as he enters the final six months of his contract with the Magpies.

Dubravka has conceded just two goals in seven games in all competitions -- all of them victories -- while deputising for the injured Nick Pope during a run where Newcastle are closing in on a place in the English League Cup final and are fifth in the Premier League table. “Martin’s been in a difficult situation,” Howe said yesterday.

“Like any player that is coming out of contract in the summer, with every player that I’ve ever worked with, there’s always that feeling of doubt.