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Karl Darlow is closing in on a return to action for Newcastle United after missing two months of action, per Chronicle Live.

The goalkeeper has been struggling with an elbow injury and has played just once this season, in the 3-1 Carabao Cup loss to Nottingham Forest.

What's the word?

Darlow has made a total of 59 appearances for the Magpies since joining the club from Nottingham Forest in 2014.

For the past two seasons, however, he has served as an understudy, making 10 appearances in the Premier League in 2017-18. He made his comeback in a mid-season friendly draw against CSKA Moscow this week.

His return, though, will be a boost to manager Rafael Benitez, who now has two senior options for the goalkeeping position, with Martin Dubravka his current first-choice.

Freddie Woodman, 21, has been on the bench in recent Premier League outings but has yet to make his top-flight debut. He has made three appearances in the FA Cup.

Benitez said after the CSKA game, per Chronicle Live: "Some players have not been playing, so it is good for them to be involved.

“I am quite happy with a lot of things.

"I think to have the chance to be involved is always good - every player needs to play but it is more difficult for the goalkeepers. It was good for him to make some saves."

Dubravka in danger

This could be a welcome shot in the arm for Dubravka.

The goalkeeper was criticised by Benitez after his mistake late on in the 1-1 draw with Wolves in the Premier League last time out.

He told Sky Sports:  "These kinds of balls you can do a little bit better - just punch the ball and finish."

Benitez has yet to trust Woodman in the Premier League but Darlow has the experience to come in if the Spaniard opts to send a message to Dubravka.

With the former Nottingham Forest stopper back to full fitness, the Slovakian can ill-afford any more mistakes.