^Karl Darlow

The grandson of former Welsh forward Ken Leek, who played for the Magpies in 1961, Darlow is a fine shot-stopper who has been with United since 2014.

Born in Northampton, he spent time with Aston Villa as a youngster before emerging from the academy system at Nottingham Forest – eventually clocking up more than 100 league appearances for the club.

Darlow joined United alongside Forest teammate and close friend Jamaal Lascelles in August 2014 and, after returning to the City Ground on a one-year loan deal, made his Premier League debut for Newcastle away at West Bromwich Albion in December 2015.

Following injuries to Tim Krul and Rob Elliot during the 2015/16 Premier League season, Darlow deputised admirably for the latter part of the campaign, memorably saving a penalty from Yohan Cabaye at the Gallowgate End during a 1-0 win over Crystal Palace.

The following campaign, Darlow emerged as a key member of Rafa Benítez's Championship title-winning side, keeping 13 clean sheets in 34 league appearances as the Magpies secured promotion back to the Premier League before lifting the trophy at St. James' Park on the final day of the season.

And he has since proven to be a fine top flight goalkeeper, challenging Martin Dúbravka for the number one spot and turning in some sensational performances during the 2020/21 season in particular.

Darlow, who penned a new five-year deal with the club in September 2020, is currently just three games away from reaching 100 appearances for United.

Full Name:

Karl Darlow

Position:

Goalkeeper

Squad Number:

26

Nationality:

English

Date of birth:

8th October 1990

Place of birth:

Northampton, England

Height:

190

Weight:

88

Date signed:

4th August 2014

Debut:

28th December 2015 v West Bromwich Albion (A)

First Team Appearances:

6

Previous club:

Nottingham Forest, Newport County (loan), Walsall (loan), Nottingham Forest (loan)