Gary Neville was not impressed by Martin Dubravka’s contribution to Newcastle United’s 4-1 Premier League hammering by Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday.
While the long-serving goalkeeper could not really be blamed for any of Everton’s three goals on Thursday night – Kieran Trippier left with his head in his hands at Goodison Park after a pair of late blunders – a miserable North London afternoon three days later did little to ease the concerns of those fretting over four months without Nick Pope’s miracle-like shot-stopping.
Martin Dubravka, in two starts since Pope’s injury, has conceded seven goals already.
With Newcastle already 3-0 down to Ange Postecoglou’s revitalised outfit, the Slovakia international raced off his line and gifted Spurs a penalty as he clattered into Heung-Min Son.
And that was the final straw for Gary Neville, the eight-time Premier League winner pulling no punches during Sky Sports’ live coverage (10 December, 5pm).
Martin Dubravka beaten four times in Newcastle hammering
“Has to do better,” Neville sighs. “He should’ve done better with the Richarlison goal (too).
“(For the Son penalty) he commits himself. He leaves his leg there and Son makes sure he kicks Dubravka to get the pen. But Dubravka gives him the opportunity.
“It’s not smart goalkeeping.”
With Newcastle boss Eddie Howe appearing to rule out a January deal for Arsenal’s Aaron Ramsdale – or free-agent David de Gea for that matter – Dubravka should at least have another few months to make up for a rather miserable trip to the capital.
Two heavy defeats in the space of just three days, meanwhile, leaves an injury-hit Newcastle seven points adrift of reigning champions Manchester City in fourth spot.
Eddie Howe plays down David de Gea links
“We have not made any enquiries (about De Gea). It’s a chance for the other keepers to consolidate their positions,” Howe told The Telegraph ahead of that Everton clash.
“We really believe in Martin. Martin is a high class goalkeeper, very good with his feet and distribution.”
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