Newcastle are hoping to bring Jasper Cillessen to the club from Barcelona but is that a little harsh on Rob Elliot?
Rafael Benitez, manager of Newcastle United, reacts during the Premier League match between against AFC Bournemouth.
Who will be Newcastle United’s first choice goalkeeper appears to have been an issue since the club won the Championship title in 2016/17.
Karl Darlow had been the preferred number one in the second tier of English football under manager Rafa Benitez, but there was speculation the 27 year old would leave during the summer.
Robert Elliot of Newcastle United during the Premier League match against Brighton and Hove Albion.
The Magpies were linked with the likes of Pepe Reina, Adrian and Darren Randolph by the Chronicle, but in the end no new stopper arrived and Tim Krul left for Brighton and Hove Albion, Matz Sels joined Anderlecht on loan, Darlow remained and Rob Elliot was given the job between the sticks in the Premier League.
Elliot has seized the opportunity as well, playing every minute of league action this season and particularly impressing in Newcastle’s last outing against Bournemouth, despite a 1-0 defeat.
The 31 year old is also part of a defence that is only bettered by the top three and Burnley in the division, with ten goals conceded in 11 matches to date.
Jasper Cillessen of Barcelona prepares to throw the ball during their International Champions Cup (ICC) football match.
Which is why rumours from Spanish publication El Gol Digital that the North East side are hoping to bring Jasper Cillessen to St James’ Park from Barcelona seems harsh on Elliot.
Cillessen has struggled for game time with Barca since a 2016 switch from Ajax, playing just once for the Catalans this term in the Copa del Rey and is open to leaving the Camp Nou to get more game time.
While the Netherlands international is undoubtedly a fine ‘keeper, Elliot has done nothing wrong and has in fact probably exceeded expectations.
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