EDDIE HOWE has admitted there might have to be changes to Newcastle United’s goalkeeping department this month.

Martin Dubravka’s surprise return from Manchester United at the start of the week means the Magpies now have five senior goalkeepers on their books.

As well as the Slovakian, who could well start tomorrow’s FA Cup third-round game at Sheffield Wednesday, and current first-choice shot-stopper Nick Pope, Newcastle also currently boast Karl Darlow, Loris Karius and Mark Gillespie as part of their first-team group.

Karius’ short-term loan is not expected to be extended when it expires later this month, and Howe admits there might have to be some further tough decisions in the wake of Dubravka’s return.

Howe said: “That’s (the goalkeeping situation) something we need to decide as the window unfolds. Martin’s return, which was slightly unexpected, gives us a top-heavy goalkeeping department in terms of numbers, so let’s see what happens with them.”

Dubravka was an unused substitute in Tuesday’s goalless draw at Arsenal, but with Howe expected to make changes for tomorrow’s trip to Hillsborough, the Slovakian could be in line for his first Newcastle appearance of the season.

Howe said: “Martin looks fine. In the very brief bits of training we’ve seen of him, because he’s only just come back from Manchester United, he’s done very well. So yeah, he’s fine to play.”