Newcastle goalkeeper Tim Krul ruled out for season
Tim Krul - Newcastle goalkeeper will not play again this season
Newcastle face a goalkeeper crisis after Tim Krul was ruled out for the rest of the season with a knee injury suffered on international duty.
Krul had to be substituted after falling awkwardly in Holland’s 2-1 victory over Kazakhstan, and it has since been revealed he has ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee.
Second choice Karl Darlow is also out with a foot injury, meaning Steve McClaren has been forced to recalled 18-year-old Freddie Woodman from his loan spell at League Two side Crawley Town.
“I’m devastated the scan has confirmed my biggest fear, that I have torn my knee cruciate playing for Holland in the game against Kazakhstan last night,” Krul said.
“My recovery and hard work starts now to fully recover. I’m devastated I can’t play a part on the pitch to help the team turn this season around. I still believe this club can – and should – be up there with the top teams.”
The Dutchman is one of the longest serving players in the Newcastle squad, having amassed 177 appearances since making his debut nine years ago.
Republic of Ireland international Rob Elliot is now likely to deputise between the posts in the Magpies’ next fixture, when they host Norwich City on Sunday.