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Former Magpies Keeper Dubravka Faces Newcastle in Saturday’s Clash at St James’ Park
Martin Dubravka is set to return to St James’ Park this weekend when Burnley face Newcastle United in the Premier League, just months after his summer departure.
The 36-year-old left Newcastle for Burnley in search of regular football, joining for an undisclosed fee after playing a major part in the Magpies’ Carabao Cup triumph and Champions League qualification last season.
Stepping in for the injured Nick Pope last December, the Slovakian inspired Newcastle to nine straight league wins, lifting them from midtable into European contention and helping the team reach the Carabao Cup final.
Pope eventually regained his place after recovering, guiding Newcastle to the cup victory and a fifth-place finish.
In total, Dubravka made 179 appearances for Newcastle between 2018 and 2025 before moving on.
Despite Burnley sitting second from bottom after 14 games, Dubravka has stood out, making more saves than any other Premier League goalkeeper so far.
Eddie Howe praised Dubravka ahead of his return, calling him a club “legend”. Dubravka signed a new contract early this year after performing well during Pope’s absence but left in the summer.
Newcastle responded by bringing in Aaron Ramsdale on loan from Southampton, with a £20m option to buy at season’s end.
Ramsdale is expected to start against Burnley, having taken over for the injured Pope.
Howe expressed admiration for Dubravka, stating the keeper earned legendary status through years of reliability and professionalism.
He expects supporters to give him a warm reception but hopes Newcastle keep him busy during the match.
With Pope sidelined for two to three weeks due to a groin injury—potentially returning around Christmas—Ramsdale now has the same opportunity Dubravka had in recent seasons. On both prior occasions, Dubravka eventually made way for Pope’s return.
Howe believes Ramsdale has performed admirably so far, noting strong showings against Everton and Tottenham despite limited chances to influence the goals conceded.
