Newcastle could now move to replace 'outstanding' player who is nursing 'hidden' injury

Newcastle United now have to call on second-choice goalkeeper Martin Dubravka to cover for the long-term absence of Nick Pope.

Martin Dubravka has been a solid goalkeeper for Newcastle since he arrived on Tyneside, but has had to make do with being second choice behind Nick Pope since Eddie Howe brought in the former Burnley stopper.

The Slovakian was so upset by the arrival of Pope he even went out on loan to Manchester United in a bizarre move that still, to this day, doesn't make sense. However, he's back now and thanks to Pope's dislocated shoulder, the 34-year-old finds himself first-choice by default.

Dubravka may be carrying a knock

However, that may not be the case for long if journalist Daniel Wales is to be believed.

It's now believed that Dubrvaka is also nursing a shoulder injury and there are concerns about whether he will be able to to continue in goal for as long as Nick Pope is absent.

Away from the possible shoulder injury, the fact that M-Dubz has conceded seven goals in the last two games doesn't exactly inspire confidence, although he has been severely let down by those in front of him.

Eddie Howe has reached out to Aaron Ramsdale

Daniel Wales believes that Eddie Howe has reached out to sulking Arsenal 'keeper Aaron Ramsdale whom he worked with at Bournemouth but also in the mix is Georgian international goalie Georgi Mamardashvilli of Valencia.

Loan moves for David de Gea and Hugo Lloris have also been mooted but hopefully, they're both last resorts.

We'll see how Dubravka fairs tomorrow night against Milan before we give up all hope, but if they manage another goal fest, it will be time to start thinking about a new stopper in January, and probably one that's going to contend with Nick Pope, not just be content with a spot on the bench when he returns.