EDDIE HOWE has revealed that Martin Dubravka requested to return from his loan spell at Manchester United in order to push for a first-team opportunity at Newcastle United.

Dubravka’s season-long loan at Old Trafford was cut short at the weekend, with Newcastle triggering a recall clause in the Slovakian’s deal.

He was back on the bench for this evening’s goalless draw with Arsenal, and with Howe happy to have him back in the fold, he could well find himself back in the starting line-up for Saturday’s FA Cup third-round game at Sheffield Wednesday.

Howe said: “Martin’s situation is that he wanted to come back, and we were delighted to welcome him back.

“There was never an issue between me and Martin. He’s a top goalkeeper, and I’m delighted to welcome him back to the squad.”

Dubravka’s return is almost certain to herald the departure of Loris Karius, with the former Liverpool goalkeeper’s short-term contract due to come to an end this month.

However, at this stage, Howe was reluctant to reveal too much about his plans relating to the 29-year-old German.

He said: “There’s no update on Loris.”