Martin will always be fondly thought of by those who say him play and who lived through the transformation of Newcastle from relegation regulars to League Cup winners in during his time at the club.

Signed in the winter of 2018/19 he immediately became a regular at United, a place he would hold as his own for a couple of seasons and would even be recognised by the North East Writers Association as player of the year. He would also get the clubs 'player of the year' award in 19/20.

Whilst an injury would see him miss a spell in 20/21 he'd be back to first choice as soon as he was fit again.

With the Saudi takeover would come new ambition, and manager Eddie Howe would recruit Nick Pope as his new first choice keeper. Having been pushed down the pecking order 'Dubs' would look for new opportunities and the club would support a loan move to Manchester United in 2022.

By a bizarre twist of fait, Newcastle would play Manchester United in that seasons EFL Cup Final, and, wouldn't you know it, Nick Pope would get himself sent off in a league game before the final and would therefore miss the game due to suspension. Had Dubravka still been at Newcastle it was certain he'd have played for the Magpies. Instead he'd sit on the bench an gain a winner medal as Manchester United ran out 2-0 winners.

Fast forward two years and Martin was back at Newcastle. Again second in the pecking order and again ready for a move. The ultimate professional however, you'd never hear a word from Dubravka or his camp. He'd train, he'd work his socks off, he'd support Nick throughout.

Again, the footballing gods would intervene, and just as Dubravka looked set to exit Newcastle in the winter window of 2024/25 wouldn't you know it Nick Pope would get a shoulder injury. Dubs would have been well within his rights to say 'sorry, I'm off guys, the deals are done', but instead he came to Newcastle's rescue, playing out of his skin as Newcastle surged towards another season of Champions League qualification but also, and some would argue more importantly, another EFL cup final.

Nick Pope now just about fit, the ONLY selection question for Newcastle before the final with Liverpool was Pope or Dubravka (who'd in many ways got them there playing the quarter final and both semi's against Arsenal). Howe went with Pope. Pope makes one tremendous save and Newcastle United win the Cup. Their first domestic trophy in 70 years.

A two time League Cup winner whilst on the books of Newcastle United then, but played in neither. But someone all Newcastle fans of that generation will hold dear in their hearts.

Thanks for everything Dubs...