Bruce handed ‘massive’ Newcastle training ground boost as pictures emerge – pundit
Newcastle United have been given a “massive lift” with Martin Dubravka back in training, according to Paddy Kenny.
The former top-flight keeper, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested the 32-year-old had been sorely missed during the early stages of the new season.
Newcastle posted pictures of Dubravka’s return to training to their official Twitter account on Tuesday (21st September).
The Slovakia international missed the start of the season with a foot injury that required surgery.
However, the wound became infected which set his recovery process back.
Freddie Woodman started the season between the sticks, with Karl Darlow sidelined after contracting Covid.
The former Nottingham Forest man returned to the starting XI for the 1-1 draw with Leeds United.
However, Kenny suggested the prospective return of Dubravka would give everyone on Tyneside a big boost of confidence.
Kenny told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “He’s an experienced pro, he’s 30-odd-years-old, he plays a key part.
“It’ll be massive to have him back. I’m sure they’ve missed him. Sometimes you do look at a goalkeeper and people go off the saves but it’s the other bits he has to do.
“The communication, demanding the defence in front of him. It’s just little things like that he’ll bring back to that Newcastle team team because of his experience and his age.
“He’s had a good career. I’m sure it’ll be a massive lift for Bruce and the other players to get back him in the team.”
Dubravka played just 13 times for Newcastle during the 2021/21 campaign season after suffering a heel injury last summer.
He made three appearances for Slovakia at this summer’s European Championships before undergoing surgery.
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