Steve Bruce handed yet another Newcastle United fitness headache with key man a doubt for Spurs

Newcastle goalkeeper Martin Dubravka kicks the ball upfield during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Aston Villa at St. James Park on March 12, 2021 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England.

Newcastle United head coach Steve Bruce has yet another fitness concern to deal with as he prepares his side for the visit of Tottenham Hotspur to St James’ Park.

Magpies goalkeeper Martin Dubravka, only returned to the United side four games ago, has missed Slovakia’s last two games with a suspected illness, and just four days ahead of the Magpies’ return to Premier League action is a slight doubt for the Tyneside encounter.

Dubravka is likely to be assessed by Newcastle medical staff ahead of the visit of Jose Mourinho’s men, with Karl Darlow waiting in the wings, should the Slovak be ruled out with the issue.

The 32-year-old missed his nation’s draw against Malta at the weekend and Tuesday’s victory over Russia due to the stomach complaint.

Darlow, benched since the home Wolves draw, has been one of United’s top performers this campaign, having filled in for the opening six months of the season while Dubravka recovered from injury.