Dubravka out as Freddie gets his chance
MAGPIES’ NUMBER ONE IS SET TO SIT OUT FA CUP THIRD ROUND TIE
MARTIN Dubravka is likely to sit out Newcastle United’s FA Cup third-round clash with Blackburn Rovers, writes LEE RYDER.
It means Freddie Woodman could get a rare chance to impress with Karl Darlow nursing an elbow injury.
Dubravka will be back in the team to face Chelsea a week today despite his mistake against Manchester United in the first game of 2019.
Asked about playing in the FA Cup, the Slovakian goalkeeper said: “It depends on the manager. It is tough now with so many games.
“New players could play and they have the chance to show themselves.
“If they do their best we can still go through.”
Dubravka also reflected on his howler against the Red Devils - and took full responsibility for the mistake.
He added: “I thought we could have taken points from that game.
“Unfortunately the first goal affected the game and of course it was my fault, I should have saved it.
“The ball moved a little and it was too late to recover for the rebound.
“I have to take the responsibility for that.
“After that we tried to create chances and we were left open.
“Manchester United converted their other chances.
“They have quality players, even on the bench. It is very hard to play against them, of course.”
Newcastle’s FA Cup clash could see a smaller crowd than usual at St James’ Park.
However, manager Rafa Benitez feels the atmosphere will still be positive and said: “I think it is important for the players to have the fans behind them.
“You never know how big the crowd will be in the cups but we will try to do well and hopefully they will enjoy the game.”
The game kicks off at 5.30 against Rovers and will be beamed out to 91 countries - but not in the UK.
When asked if the delayed kickoff Newcastle’s Freddie Woodman will effect preparations for the day, Benitez played this factor down.
The former Liverpool boss said: “In terms of our approach it has not changed too much.
“It is more for the players and what they do in the morning and afternoon. We have all the setpieces ready. It is a later kick-off but we are at home.”