Elliot doubt as he fails to make squad

ROB Elliot’s Newcastle United future is in doubt as Rafa Benitez opted against including the goalkeeper in his squad to face Burnley last night.

Freddie Woodman was selected to sit on the bench for the Turf Moor clash, with regular number two Karl Darlow unavailable.

The decision effectively means Republic of Ireland international Elliot is now the Magpies’ fourthchoice keeper.

Benitez has previously indicated he will look to loan out or move on at least one of Woodman and Elliot in January.

Elliot, who has endured his injury issues in recent years, has not appeared for the Magpies for almost a year.

With Martin Dubravka, Darlow and now Woodman ahead of him in the pecking order, the former Charlton stopper could have to leave to get first-team football.

England Under-21 goalkeeper Woodman has also been left frustrated in the first half of the season after failing to get a loan deal sanctioned back in August.

The youngster is desperate for first-team action and could now be closer to the action as back-up stopper for Martin Dubravka.

The Slovakia international arrived on loan from Sparta Prague in January and performed well enough to secure a permanent deal in the summer.

Dubravka has established himself as United’s number one and has appeared in all 13 Premier League games this season so far.

Woodman will be pleased to be back in the mix at first-team level although his preference could still be to leave the club on loan in January to get more experience.

The 21-year-old has spent time at Scotland with Kilmarnock and Aberdeen in recent seasons.

Speaking about his future, Woodman said earlier this season: “January is around the corner and I have to be prepared for it when it comes.

“I’ve always said I enjoy playing football so, whatever level it is, I am going to enjoy it.

“I don’t have to play for the Under-23s – I choose to play. I just want to get the best out of a bad situation.”