Former Newcastle United defender Steve Howey believes that Freddie Woodman will become a top goalkeeper.

Woodman spent last season on loan at Swansea City and has been linked with another move away from St James’ Park this summer, with AFC Bournemouth interested in taking the shot stopper on loan.

The move to Bournemouth was postponed though, as Newcastle goalkeeper Martin Dubravka suffered a foot injury and could need an operation according the Chronicle Live.

With injury to Dubravka, it remains to be seen whether Woodman will be staying at St James’ Park or whether he will head out on loan again before the start of the season, with Bruce surprisingly admitting that he may have to register four stoppers in his 25-man Premier League squad for the 2021/22 campaign.

Whatever happens, the 24-year-old comes with high praise from Steve Howey, who told Football FanCast: “I think he will be a top, top goalkeeper in a few years to come, so it will be an interesting decision what he makes of whether he actually comes back to Newcastle for the start of the season, or whether he goes back out on loan.”

Woodman was in inspired form last season at the Liberty Stadium, conceding less than a goal per game, being beaten just 47 times in 52 appearances in all competitions, as well as keeping 22 clean sheets.