Slovakia international shot stopper Martin Dubravkamade his long awaited return from injury during the FA Cup third round clash at Arsenal some days back. The Slovakia goalkeeper had been out of action for several months as a result of the heel injury sustained last summer.
Martin Dubravka has had to wait for his chance to return to action. Newcastle United boss Steve Bruce opted to use him in the FA Cup clash at the Emirates Stadium against the holders Arsenal, while his deputy Karl Darlow has continued in goal for the four league games since his return from the heel injury.
Karl Darlow has impressed for the Magpies since the start of the season and Slovakia international Martin Dubravka faces a big fight to reclaim his number one shirt at Newcastle United this season. Martin Dubravka was excellent in goal during the FA Cup meeting with Arsenal but he could not do anything to prevent the Arsenal goals in extra time.
Arsenal and Newcastle United shared a goalless draw at the fulltime whistle and extra time had to be employed to determine who goes through to the next round of the FA Cup. Second half substitute Emile Smith-Rowe and club skipper Pierre-EmerickAubameyang were the goalscorers for the Gunners. The reward for eliminating Newcastle United is a fourth round trip to face Southampton or Shrewsbury Town this weekend to determine who will qualify for the next round.