Newcastle United boss has publicly commented on the sale of Martin Dubravka for the first time after it was confirmed that he had made a permanent move to Burnley.
This summer has seen a changing of the guard across multiple positions in the Magpies’ first team squad, with multiple longstanding players leaving Tyneside to pursue opportunities elsewhere.
Callum Wilson left Newcastle United after five seasons for free and has now joined West Ham United as their new No.9. The striker made a habit of scoring goals against the Hammers, and now he has the opportunity to push them up the Premier League table.
Elsewhere, Sean Longstaff left Newcastle for Leeds United, ending a near two-decade-long spell in the North East. Longstaff was a graduate of Newcastle’s academy, making nearly 200 appearances in the black and white stripes.
Now, Martin Dubravka, another player who enjoyed a long stay at Newcastle, has left for Burnley after the signing of Aaron Ramsdale on loan. At 36, Dubravka still wanted to be a starter, which was just not possible at the Magpies.
With Dubravka’s exit confirmed, Eddie Howe has now publicly commented on how he feels about the deal.
Martin Dubravka arrives at St James' Park ahead of a Premier League game between Newcastle United and Everton.
Photo by Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images
Eddie Howe heaps praise on Martin Dubravka after Newcastle United exit
Newcastle needed to relieve themselves of a goalkeeper, especially after Ramsdale’s arrival. The position is stacked with quality, but Howe has his preferred options.
Despite that, Dubravka was still a big part of Newcastle’s first-team squad over the years, and even played a part in getting the Magpies into the Carabao Cup final during their sensational form during the winter months. Dubravka kept several clean sheets while covering for Nick Pope from December to February, and was even in with a shout of starting the cup final at Wembley.
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Dubravka leaves Newcastle having made 179 appearances in all competitions, picking up a Carabao Cup winners’ medal in the process. When asked about him in the post-match presser following Newcastle’s draw with Espanyol, Howe gave the Slovakian a glowing review.
“Absolutely brilliant for me – a pleasure to coach and work with,” Howe said. His journey at Newcastle was a great story. We thank him for all he’s done for the club. He leaves with his head held high knowing he did a great job for us.”
Another Newcastle United goalkeeper set to leave this summer
The summer clear-out is far from over, with Howe still eager to sell a couple more fringe players who clearly have no future on Tyneside.
Isaac Hayden’s contract was mutually terminated, while the likes of Matt Targett are free to leave if a good enough offer comes in.
Meanwhile, Newcastle appear to be desperate to let out-of-favour goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos go this summer, and their wish should soon be granted after a new update. The 31-year-old played just 45 minutes of football last season, with Howe reportedly making it clear that he is in no way part of his plans going forward.
Odysseas is on the brink of joining Sevilla on loan, with a permanent move ruled out due to PSR concerns.