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Newcastle United: Expectations for Martin Dubravka next season

By Durim Halimi

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 11: Martin Dubravka of Newcastle United collects the ball during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Manchester United at St. James Park on February 11, 2018 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 11: Martin Dubravka of Newcastle United collects the ball during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Manchester United at St. James Park on February 11, 2018 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images) /
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Martin Dubravka came to Newcastle United on loan and earned a permanent contract as a result of his impressive form.

Martin Dubravka came to Newcastle United as a relatively unknown goalkeeper, but the Slovakian international earned his place on Tyneside. Dubravka is not a new face for the Magpies, but he was the first official signing for the club this summer.

Dubravka started in every match for Newcastle since arriving in late January and he is expected to keep his starting role next season. As the main man between the posts, Dubravka showcased athleticism and football intelligence for his position.

When compared to Rob Elliot and Karl Darlow, Dubravka is the best option for Newcastle between the posts. The only thing that remains to be seen is whether or not Dubravka can maintain consistent form from August through May.

Top Five: Clean Sheets

Dubravka’s loan spell with Newcastle during the 2017-18 Premier League campaign was impressive. Dubravka was credited for earning the Magpies four clean sheets since his arrival, with his first clean occurring on his debut against Manchester United.

The 29-year-old keeper displayed composure and stability as Newcastle last line of defense last season. Dubravka played exceptionally well against superior opposition. The athletic keeper claimed clean sheets against Manchester United and Chelsea and made big saves against Arsenal and Leicester City to secure victories.

With a full season of playing time, Dubravka will be expected to perform well for the Magpies by earning at least 12 clean sheets. Claiming 12 clean sheets from a 38-match season is a difficult task, but with assistance from his solid defensive unit, it can be accomplished.

Preview: 2018-19 Statistics

It is easy to see why Rafa Benitez speaks so highly of Martin Dubravka. With little time to adapt to English football, the Slovakian keeper claimed four clean sheets, only conceded 11 goals (0.91 per match) and made some crucial saves for the club.

This season will be more difficult for Dubravka as he will face more adversity in a long season. Moreover, Dubravka will be expected to prove he was worthy of his permanent deal as the Magpies snubbed other keepers to retain his services. My predictions for Dubravka’s stat line this coming season are listed below:

  • Clean Sheets: 9
  • Goals Conceded: 42
  • Saves: 80