Martin Dubravka future sorted as goalkeeper almost left Newcastle United in January

Newcastle United's back-up goalkeeper Martin Dubravka had a move to Saudi Arabian side Al-Shabab all ready to go in January before he was given a run in the team.

Martin Dubravka is now 36 years old and while that's not old in goalkeeper years, it's beyond the age profile of the Newcastle United team that Paul Mitchell is trying to create.

Therefore, it seemed inevitable that when Al-Shabab came knocking in January, the Slovakian would be off in search of regular first-team football to wind down his career.

An injury to Nick Pope saw Dubravka promoted to first-choice with £20 million summer-signing Odysseas Vlachodimos left to ride the bench, and Dubravka's form between the sticks caused a change of heart by Newcastle and Dubravka himself, and Eddie Howe was able to persuade him to stay until the end of the season.

Martin Dubravka admits he has a special connection with Newcastle United

There was even talk about extending his stay beyond this season, and now that looks like what's going to happen as Newcastle have announced via their official website that Dubravka has signed a one-year extension to his deal, which will keep him at the club. Strangely, the announcement makes no mention of the length of the deal he's signed, so he may be around for a few years yet.

Dubravka says he was delighted to sign on again, citing a deep affection for the club.

"I'm really happy to have extended my time here. I had a really positive discussion with the gaffer and sporting director and we all agreed that it would be best if I stayed here.

"I have a really special connection here with the club, the staff and the fans. My children were born here, so they are Geordies now, and this club holds a special place in my heart.

"I feel that the team is in a really good place at the minute, with how we are doing in the league and obviously being in two cup competitions is really exciting."

Eddie Howe must decide who is Number 1

Dubravka is currently keeping Nick Pope out of the starting XI and has done really well in his absence, so it only seemed right to reward him with a new contract.

Whether it has been done so that we can still pick up some money by selling him in the summer rather than lose him for free, similar to what we've done with Sean Longstaff, only time will tell.

The big question is, now that he's signed up, will Eddie Howe revert to Nick Pope in goal on Sunday?