OPINION
For most fans in the Premier League, the 30th May would have passed by like most others in the post-season lull – but not for the Newcastle United faithful.
The Toon Army were treated to the news that they had all been waiting to hear, with Martin Dubravka confirmed on the Magpies’ official Twitter account and website as the club’s first signing of the summer after his impressive loan spell from Sparta Prague.
IT'S DONE! ??
We're delighted to confirm the permanent signing of Martin Dúbravka from @ACSparta_EN!
Full story: https://t.co/jK4kv1l5Ix #NUFC pic.twitter.com/viwceGbbu1
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) May 30, 2018
The goalkeeper was a surprise arrival over January but his performances between the sticks showed exactly why Rafael Benitez had brought him in, bringing composure, confidence and a commanding nature to the defence.
The Magpies had included a purchase clause which made the deal easy to complete, although the supporters would have still been left feeling worried about why it took so long to get done.
It had been claimed that Dubravka’s deal was dependent on the future of Benitez at Newcastle, with rumours circulating that the Spaniard might not be at St James’ Park for much longer with Mike Ashley still in charge.
As such, the Slovakian shot stopper putting pen to paper only hands the Newcastle fans a massive boost in their hopes of seeing their manager, idolised by the north east natives, remain at the club for at least another year, and perhaps longer.
Dubravka’s deal was crucial, for he is a top quality shot stopper, but it could well hint at something much, much bigger for the Magpies, and it is a great start to their summer shopping.