{{primary_category}}
{{/primary_category}} 
Benitez blocks double departure despite Newcastle duo's temporary exit requests - report
Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez has denied promising goalkeeping duo Freddie Woodman and Paul Woolston the opportunity to leave on loan as he seeks a new shot stopper, according to a report.
The Chronicle claim on their website that the youngsters, Woodman at 20-year-old and Woolston at 19, have both requested the opportunity to depart St James’ Park in order to pick up more first team experience.
It is said that the Spanish boss has told them they will be remaining with the Magpies until their current goalkeeping situation is sorted out, with a new addition to the squad being eyed in January.
Woodman, who made his senior debut in the FA Cup win over Luton Town last weekend, is reportedly set to be on the substitute’s bench for the clash against Swansea City, with Karl Darlow replacing him in the first team as Rob Elliot continues to recover from his injury layoff.
The Republic of Ireland international’s absence has promoted Woolston, who is an England under-18 international, to third choice on Tyneside, with Benitez unwilling to let him leave under the current circumstances.
Football Insider verdict
Rob Elliot’s injury is putting more than just his own career at risk at the moment, with Woodman and Woolston both desperate to gain more first team action. Unfortunately for them, they are now in among the first team squad and know that injury or suspension to Karl Darlow could see them in the match day squad. While that would be good for Woodman, who would be given more minutes as a result, Woolston still does not benefit. Could it be Benitez brings in a new shot stopper and, instead of selling one of the senior stars, allows both the youngsters to leave on loan? Possibly, although there would be questions over why the Magpies would spend all those wages on three senior goalkeepers.
In other Newcastle United transfer news, the club are looking to secure an imminent deal for an international star.
We’ve launched a << BREAKING NEWS FEED>> exclusively for your club. ‘Like Us’ on Facebook by clicking here if you want 24/7 updates on all Newcastle United breaking news.