Rafael Benitez provides update on Karl Darlow’s fitness at Newcastle United

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Karl Darlow has been out since the end of November for Newcastle United.

Rafael Benitez has told the Chronicle that Newcastle United goalkeeper Karl Darlow is getting very close to returning to fitness now.

Darlow has been out since the end of November, which has led to Freddie Woodman taking a place in Newcastle’s substitutes’ bench.

But Newcastle should have their first choice understudy to Martin Dubravka back and involved again soon.

“He is getting very, very close now,” Benitez said.

“Maybe next week he will be training normally with the team and hopefully he will be back around.”

Darlow looks likely to step straight back on to Newcastle’s bench, but his chances of playing regularly seem limited.

Dubravka is such a reliable presence in Newcastle’s goal that it is now almost impossible to see him being dropped, unless injury strikes.

Darlow has actually been linked with a move away from St. James’ Park this month, but Benitez has admitted that deal is unlikely to happen now.

Newcastle are next in action at the weekend against Watford, before they take on Manchester City in the Premier League, when Darlow could be involved again.