Newcastle United reportedly still want another goalkeeper, but one of Rafa Benitez’s men has seemingly staked a claim.
According to a report from the Chronicle, if Newcastle are unable to sign another goalkeeper before the new campaign begins, then it is likely to be Rob Elliot who begins the season as the Magpies’ first-choice.
Rafa Benitez currently has three senior goalkeepers on his books, but the Chronicle reports that Tim Krul is now training with the youngsters and has been told that he can find another team in an attempt to move one of the higher-earners away from the club.
And while the Chronicle also adds that Benitez is keen to bring another stopper to St James’ Park before the deadline, it appears that Elliot is the man who has impressed his manager enough to be considered the first-choice for the clash with Tottenham next month as things stand.
Injury prevented the Republic of Ireland international competing with Matz Sels and Karl Darlow for a place in the team at the start of the Championship season last year.
However, his return to fitness did not see Benitez move Elliot to the top of the pecking order, predominantly keeping faith with Darlow during the promotion-winning campaign, and often leaving the 31-year-old on the bench.
Elliot did ultimately make three appearances last term, keeping two clean sheets along the way, and it appears that he may well just need the first month of the coming campaign to match last season’s tally.
Rob Elliot
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