Martin Dubravka responds after Newcastle star’s collision with Cristiano Ronaldo

While Martin Dubravka has had to watch Nick Pope start for Newcastle United ever since the latter’s arrival, the goalkeeper remains a key presence for his country.

Indeed, the 34-year-old is a big part of the Slovakia set-up and was involved in a reasonably high-profile incident while away on international duty on Friday night.

Dubravka was on the receiving end of a collision with Cristiano Ronaldo, a man he knows well given their brief time at Manchester United together last season.

The Portugal superstar was lucky to have avoided a red card and Dubravka has since spoken of the incident.

What Martin Dubravka said about his clash with Cristiano Ronaldo

The Newcastle stopper admits he simply closed his eyes and hoped for the best when Ronaldo’s studs were coming towards his face as the two raced for a loose ball.

Speaking to reporters with quotes sourced by The Chronicle, Dubravka said: “I just closed my eyes and prayed that he wouldn’t hit me in the face as well. When I saw his studs coming at me, I didn’t even look.

“These are situations when the goalkeeper closes his eyes and tries only to block the shot, and he, as a striker, has to go after such a ball. I don’t blame him.”

Dubravka could be needed at Newcastle this season

Pope might have been the defined number 1 since his arrival at St James’ Park but the England international has hardly covered himself in glory this season.

While there is no suggestion Eddie Howe will look to change his goalkeeper any time soon, Dubravka offers some high class back-up.

So impressive upon his initial arrival in 2018, the veteran is more than experienced in the Premier League, with some excellent performances on his CV.

Pope will surely get time to get over his relative dip in form but Howe does have options