Dúbravka determined to take his chance

The Slovakian international ‘keeper linked up with the Magpies from Sparta Prague yesterday, and his temporary switch could yet become a permanent one should he impress, with United having an option to buy.

With Freddie Woodman having headed to Aberdeen, Dúbravka will vie with Rob Elliot and Karl Darlow for the Magpies’ berth between the sticks, and the 29-year-old is desperate to make an impression after taking a “big step” in his career.

“I feel amazing. This is a big step in my career and also in my life,” he told NUFC TV. “I will try to make my adaptation as fast as possible, then I will try to work hard, train hard and show that I deserve to be here. That is all I can do.

“I am coming to a big team, and at these big clubs, you can never be 100 per cent that you are going to be number one – you have to fight for it. You have to show to people around the club you deserve your chance.

“It is hard to describe myself. I like to play football. I like to be active on the pitch and help the players if they are in critical situations. I try to play with my feet, try to get out and just help with the talking. It is hard to say what the best characteristic of me is.”

Dúbravka was present as the Magpies were held to a 1-1 draw by Burnley at St. James’ Park last night, and he revealed that the “energy” around the club had already had an effect.

“When I came to the stadium, the first feeling was amazing – you can see the 50,000 people screaming and making a noise,” he said. “You can feel the energy of the people around the club. When I play in Slovakia, it is not that many times you can feel that energy. When I was at Sparta Prague, at the beginning, it was very similar, but here it is much more people.

“I appreciate that the manager and this club has interest in me. When my agent called me and said it could happen, I was like, ‘OK – this could be a very great opportunity for me in my career and in my life.’ But, I didn’t think about it until they sent the offer, and suddenly, in one second, it is completed. I am happy I’m here.”