Martin Dubravka’s Manchester United woes have continued after the Newcastle United loanee was forced home early from international duty. Dubravka was set to represent Slovakia for their upcoming fixtures with Azerbaijan and Belarus in the Nations League.
However, the 33-year-old has picked up an injury in training and has therefore been sent back to Man United as a precaution and to get his problem assessed. Dubravka made the temporary switch to Old Trafford on deadline day but is yet to make an appearance for the Reds in any competition, though it was always likely he would be playing second fiddle to David de Gea.
He has made the bench on two occasions since his move, but was absent for their most recent game against Sheriff Tiraspol, although no explanation was given as to why he missed out. Dubravka will be hoping the packed schedule Man United are set to face this season will provide him with the opportunity to play some part.
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Sections of Newcastle supporters questioned the goalkeeper's decision to swap Tyneside for a move south rather than fighting for his place alongside Nick Pope.
“We spent almost five beautiful years in Newcastle, but from a sporting point of view it was often very difficult, as we mostly played for survival,” Dubravka told Slovakian outlet Sport this week.
“We didn’t have the opportunity to think about competing in the higher ranks, even though it turned out to be quite interesting in the end. But I have wonderful memories of Newcastle.
“My son was born there, so there will always be a bit of Newcastle with me and in me, but when Manchester United called, we [Dubravka and his partner Lucia] were both enchanted. Newcastle made this transfer possible for me and I am glad it was successful and she [Lucia] is also looking forward to a new experience and challenge.”
Dubravka can be recalled in January due to a clause in his Newcastle loan deal but the Magpies have added new addition Loris Karius to their 25-man Premier League squad after an injury to Karl Darlow.
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