Darlow staying ‘grounded’ amid talk of England call-up

KARL Darlow insist he is not ‘getting carried away’ by talk of an England call-up and is focused on continuing to impress at Newcastle United.

The former Nottingham Forest shotstopper has been praised for his performances in the absence of Martin Dubravka so far this season.

Darlow has been kept busy in his 13 league appearances to date. The 30-year-old has already made 55 saves, with only West Brom and Leeds

United conceding more efforts on target.

Darlow’s form prompted talk of an England call-up in the last squad, with Jordan Pickford’s indifferent form at Everton and Nick Pope only recently returning from injury at Burnley.

Gareth Southgate did not select Darlow for the November internationals and the goalkeeper admits it is a boost to even be in the conversation for a call-up.

However, the current Magpies’ No 1 believes he needs to remain ‘grounded’ to continue his fine form on Tyneside. Darlow said: “It is nice to even be mentioned in the same lines with the national team.

“I am not getting carried away. We are only 13 games into the season and there is a long way to go.

“I am concentrating on what I am doing for the club and if that gets recognised internationally, so be it.

“I would be very proud to be called up but for me at the minute it is about staying grounded, mentally preparing for each game and making sure I can continue doing what I am doing.”

Darlow has often been credited for keeping the Magpies in contests so far this campaign, such as his performance in the draw at Tottenham.

The 30-year-old also became the first Premier League goalkeeper to deny Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes from the penalty spot, albeit in a heavy home defeat.

Darlow added: “It has not been the first time I have had a run of games but I am enjoying it.”