Eddie Howe allowed Karl Darlow to leave Newcastle United during the January transfer window, and the goalkeeper has now explained why he decided to head out on loan.
Darlow joined Hull City on loan on transfer deadline day, with his move to Humberside confirmed shortly after Newcastle‘s Carabao Cup semi final win over Southampton.
The 32-year-old headed to Hull with the Magpies’ blessing, but Howe was left to rue that decision less than a month later.
Nick Pope’s red card against Liverpool meant he was suspended for the Carabao Cup final, opening the door for Loris Karius to start at Wembley. However, it probably would have been Darlow in between the sticks had he stayed.
As for Darlow, he made his Hull debut at the weekend, with the Tigers losing 1-0 to Bristol City. It was his first appearance for Liam Rosenior’s side, having sat on the bench for the previous four games.
But the goalkeeper has got his opportunity now, and has spoke about his move to the Championship side and what the future might hold.
“I want to play football, that’s it,” Darlow said.
“From my perspective, I could have let it go another six months, another 12 months and before you know it, you’re three years into not playing.
“For me, I’m ambitious. I’m young – for a goalkeeper, I’m 32, I’ve got years ahead of me and I want to prolong my career by playing football, making sure I’m still in people’s minds and that they have not forgot about me.”
On his future, Darlow said: “It’s not a discussion for me to put to anyone. I think that will be dealt with behind the scenes in the summer, and what Newcastle thinks.”
Permanent move away makes sense for Darlow
While Darlow has refused to close the door on a return to St James’ Park, a permanent move away this summer would certainly make sense.
He will only have one year left on his current Toon contract, and will no doubt have a desire to keep playing regularly if he can keep his place in the Hull City side between now and the end of the season.
Darlow has been a good player for Newcastle, but has pretty much no chance of ever being the club’s number one ever again. His future may depend on what happens with Martin Dubravka, but you would assume that both players will want to be first choice somewhere.
As Darlow says, he is only 32 and has his best years ahead of him, making him a great option for a lower half Premier League side or anyone in the second tier.
Staying at Newcastle is obviously a possibility, but probably wouldn’t be the best decision for his career.
