Newcastle United goalkeeper handed Carabao Cup ‘opportunity’ as future speculation continues

Newcastle United goalkeeper Martin Dubravka will make a long-awaited debut for Manchester United in Thursday night’s Carabao Cup tie against Premier League rivals Aston Villa.

The Slovakian international moved to Old Trafford in a season-long loan deal on the final day of the summer transfer window but has endured a rather underwhelming time with the Red Devils. Dubravka has been an unused substitute in six Premier League games and five Europa League fixtures but he will finally make his debut for his temporary employers on Thursday night.

Speaking ahead of the game, Red Devils manager Erik ten Hag told Sky Sports: “It’s his opportunity to show his skills. We believe that, otherwise we wouldn’t have got him from Newcastle. He already proved it in the Premier League and I am sure he will do, but this is his opportunity to show it.”

There had been some speculation Dubravka could return to Tyneside in January after a break clause was believed to be inserted in the loan deal. United manager Eddie Howe addressed any future move earlier this week, saying: “I think he is an outstanding goalkeeper. I really do and 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.”