Eddie Howe is pondering making a change in goal ahead of tonight's home clash with Crystal Palace.
The Magpies played Karl Darlow in the 2-1 win at Tranmere Rovers in the last round before the long-serving stopper picked up an ankle injury. Howe then signed former Liverpool stopper Loris Karius but the 29-year-old is yet to feature.
Nick Pope has been outstanding between the posts for Newcastle this season and would still be keen to help the club progress in the cup. Howe kept his team under wraps when asked about the keepers tonight.
Howe said: "It’s the same as the outfield players really, we’ll make a decision on our team on Wednesday. We’ll finish training today and I’ll have a full idea of who is fit and available. I’ll make my decision."
Darlow was declared fit enough to take a place on the bench in the 4-1 win at Southampton at the weekend and was effectively just a heartbeat away from the action had Pope picked up an injury. His return to the bench leaves a question mark on Karius and whether Howe extends his deal.
Newcastle also have squad man Mark Gillespie to come back from an injury. Howe was asked about Martin Dubravka - currently on loan at Manchester United - and said last week: "I think he is an outstanding goalkeeper. I really do and I will have a chat with Martin as time progresses.
"I won't speak now as he is in the middle of a busy period as we are. There will be a time when I will sit down with him and have a chat and see what he wants to do next. It's difficult for me to comment. I don't know what goes on at any other football club."
Dubravka has a recall clause in his Man United loan and could - on paper - return to Newcastle. After being surprisingly overlooked by the Red Devils in the Europa League, Dubravka's future may hinge on whether he is used in Thursday's League Cup tie against Aston Villa. With a potential European venture ahead next season for Newcastle, he could yet be needed on Tyneside as part of squad rotation. Howe said last week: "The door is still open. A lot depends on what Martin wants. We will take it from there."
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