Newcastle recall Martin Dubravka from Manchester United’s four main rivals just four months after the start of a season-long loan deal

Martin Dubravka has been recalled by Newcastle United from his season-long loan at Manchester United.

The Slovak has made just two appearances since joining Old Trafford in the summer but will now return to Tyneside.

United paid Newcastle £2m to loan out Dubravka and had the option of signing him on a permanent £6m deal if he made a number of appearances.

A statement from Manchester United read: “Martin Dubravka has been recalled from his season-long loan to Manchester United by parent club Newcastle United.

“The Slovak keeper has made two appearances for the Reds since arriving from Tyneside in the summer, both in the Carabao Cup.

“We would like to thank Martin for his contribution during his time with our club, and wish him all the best for the future.”

The Magpies are believed to have taken the decision to put Dubravka’s stay at Manchester on hold, with the club confirming he will return to the club to offer competition to Nick Pope.

Pope became the club’s undisputed number one after leaving Burnley in the summer.

The England international has kept nine clean sheets this season – the most in the Premier League – and unseating the 30-year-old could prove a difficult task.

Newcastle have a host of goalkeepers at their disposal with Karl Darlow replacing Pope, while former Liverpool goalkeeper Loris Karius has been brought in on a short-term contract due to expire later this month.

The Magpies ended 2022 with a goalless draw at home to Leeds to cement their third-place finish.

Eddie Howe’s side will be hoping they can get back to winning ways quickly, but face a tough trip against runaway leaders Arsenal on Tuesday night before a trip to Sheffield Wednesday in the FA Cup next weekend.