Newcastle recall Martin Dubravka from Man Utd loan

Martin Dubravka has been recalled from his Manchester United loan spell by parent club Newcastle.

The 33-year-old joined the Red Devils on loan at the start of the season with Erik ten Hag in need of backup to David De Gea.

Newcastle were happy to let him replace Dean Henderson at Old Trafford - he joined Nottingham Forest on loan - with Nick Pope their first-choice goalkeeper and Loris Karius and Karl Darlow in reserve.

Since then, the Slovakia international has made two appearances for Man Utd, starting in their Carabao Cup matches against Aston Villa and Burnley, keeping a clean sheet in the latter game.

He won't add to that tally though as Newcastle have opted to recall him with immediate effect, ending his loan spell early.

"We would like to thank Martin for his contribution during his time with our club, and wish him all the best for the future," a Man Utd statement said.

The fact that Newcastle have brought him back suggests that Karius, whose contract expires this month, won't be signing a new deal. Eddie Howe has previously expressed an interest in keeping the German, but the 29-year-old is yet to make a competitive appearance for the club and may move on in pursuit of first team football.

Dubravka returns to St James' Park with Newcastle riding the crest of a form wave. They have lost just once in the Premier League this season and are firmly in contention for a top-four finish.