NUFC new-boy Martin Dubravka has waxed lyrical about life on Tyneside once again this week, revealing that Newcastle are one of the most famous clubs in Slovakia whilst reiterating his desire to secure a permanent deal at St James’ Park this summer.
The 29-year-old put in one of the finest debuts we’ve seen in years in our 1-0 win over Man Utd and I was impressed with him on his second appearance for the club on Saturday.
Bournemouth may have scored two late goals to turn what looked like a great result into a grim one, however Dubravka was assured in all he did once again. He showed impressive reflexes, was comfortable with the ball at his feet and seemed confident communicating with the defence throughout.
Here’s what he’s had to say following the game, admitting just how his life has changed since making the move to England last month:
“This has completely changed my life. Suddenly there are new possibilities. Everyone around this city has the feeling for football.”
“I hope I’ll stay. It’s amazing here. Everybody in Slovakia knows about Newcastle; it’s a big name in my country.”
“I know many people talk about the top six in England but, in Slovakia, Newcastle’s one of the most famous clubs.”
“Everyone wants to be a hero of a club like Newcastle but I have to take this step by step. If you think things are going to go well, then they won’t.”
The Slovakian international then revealed that Rafa has been asking him to communicate and be confident from crosses during games – two things he has done brilliantly in his opening few games as an NUFC player:
“He wants me to be loud and to talk to people, to help them and be confident on crosses,”
“I don’t want to look like I’m arrogant, just like I have enough confidence to help the guys. If I can see a striker three meters behind my defender, I’ll tell him.”
“We need to know we’re all equal on the pitch. I don’t care if someone’s been here for five years, we have to fight together for the points.”
There’s 10 games to go yet, so a lot more obstacles to overcome, but I would be very surprised if we didn’t see him sign permanently in the summer if he can keep up this level of performance.
He’ll be a snip at the rumoured £4m fee if he can continue impressing..
