Martin Dubravka makes telling Manchester United admission ahead of Newcastle United talks

Martin Dubravka insists he is enjoying life at Manchester United, despite making just one appearance since completing his season-long loan move from Newcastle United in the summer.

Magpies head coach Eddie Howe reluctantly sanctioned the goalkeeper’s switch to Old Trafford after Dubravka expressed a desire to pursue the move - with Nick Pope’s arrival from Burnley bringing added competition.

Although David de Gea is the Red Devils’ undisputed No.1, it was thought Dubravka would come into contention for the club’s Europa League games, however, was overlooked in all six of their group matches.

Last week, the Slovakian finally made his long-awaited debut as Man United beat Aston Villa 4-2 to progress into the last 16 of the Carabao Cup, where they will face Burnley in the next round.

Speaking after the Villa game, the 33-year-old told MUFC “I came here to enjoy that match because it’s not often you have a chance to play. Obviously, I came here to challenge but I’m enjoying every minute.

“I’ve played against Man United so many times here (at Old Trafford) but now I represent this club. I enjoy every moment because it’s not that often.

“I enjoy working with him (de Gea). He’s a great lad. I came here to push and challenge, of course, but I respect David as a person. I’m glad we’ve created a good mood around the training ground with Tom (Heaton) and the other guys. I enjoy every minute with them. It’s good to be here.”

Before the World Cup break, Howe revealed he is set to hold talks with Dubravka about his situation at Old Trafford. Newcastle have an option to recall the Slovak in January - and Howe has left the door open for a return. The decision, however, rests with the player.

“I think he is an outstanding goalkeeper, I really do,” Howe said. “I will have a chat with Martin as time progresses. I won’t speak now as he is in the middle of a busy period as we are. There will be a time when I will sit down with him and have a chat and see what he wants to do next.

“It’s difficult for me to comment. I don’t know what goes on at any other football club. All I will say is I love Martin as a lad, he did brilliantly for us last year and he is an outstanding goalkeeper and I will have a chat with him at the right time. Of course yeah, the door is still open. A lot depends on what Martin wants. We will take it from there.”

Dubravka, who has made 130 appearances for Newcastle since joining from Sparta Prague in January 2018, is under contract at St James’ Park until 2025.