Newcastle United Spring Surprise with FA Cup Team Selection Against Bromley
The Magpies Opt for the Keeper in Contract Talks
Eddie Howe sprung a slight surprise on FA Cup third-round day by naming Martin Dubravka in Newcastle United’s starting line-up for their clash with Bromley.
Many had anticipated Odysseas Vlachodimos finally making his long-awaited debut, but it was the Slovakian keeper, fresh off contract talks, who got the nod against League Two opposition.
Howe made several changes to his side, with Kieran Trippier captaining and Matt Targett starting at left-back.
Fabian Schär returned from suspension to partner Lloyd Kelly in central defense.
In midfield, Sean Longstaff, Joelinton, and Lewis Miley were selected, while Harvey Barnes, Will Osula, and Miguel Almirón led the attack.
As reported by Chronicle Live, Howe previously stated that even if Dubravka played only a few more matches this season, keeping him would be the “right decision” if he helped secure Newcastle’s place in the Carabao Cup final, especially with Nick Pope’s injury concerns.
In total, Howe made nine changes to the starting XI, leaving experienced players like Bruno Guimarães, Anthony Gordon, and Sandro Tonali on the bench. Vlachodimos was named as a substitute.
Meanwhile, reports from Saudi Arabia suggest Dubravka was given a 48-hour deadline to finalize a lucrative deal, with the club prepared to pursue other targets if he declined.
The keeper now faces a tough decision: accept a potentially life-changing move or risk being benched on Tyneside within weeks.
