EDDIE Howe praised Nick Pope for his crucial contribution against Nottingham Forest after returning to the starting XI for the first time since his return from injury.
Howe admitted it was a "big decision" to replace Dubravka with Pope, whose last start had come in the December defeat to Brentford.
That was followed by a knee injury that sidelined the keeper for seven Premier League games, with Dubravka impressing in that time and keeping his place in the side even when Pope resumed fitness.
But the 32-year-old, Howe's established No.1 in recent seasons, returned to the side against Forest and impressed Howe, even thought the Magpies conceded three goals.
"It was a big decision, they're all big decisions but I understand why the goalkeeper is highlighted because there's only one," said Newcastle's boss.
"It's always with a view to trying to pick a team to win a football match. That's what I did today.
"I value both goalkeepers that have played this year, Martin and Nick. Nick has got his strengths, Martin has got his strengths.
"Nick distributed the ball really well, he played a part in two goals today. He helps us with set plays and the physical threat, which we didn't do well enough with our outfield players. But he'll be disappointed to concede three goals for sure."
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The keeper switch was one of three changes Howe made against Forest, with Tino Livramento replacing Kieran Trippier at right-back and Sandro Tonali having to be rested after complaining of a minor hamstring issue in the days leading up to the game.
In an ideal world, Tonali would have had the afternoon off but Howe had to call on the Italian in the final stages after Newcastle had lost control and Forest were threatening an unlikely comeback.
Howe said: "He had a hamstring problem in the week, he missed a couple of days training.
"I didn't really want to risk him today but with the second half as it was we felt we needed his legs in midfield.
"He said he felt OK to play. It was a reluctant sub but I thought he did OK when he came on and touch wood he's OK."
Newcastle are now just three points behind Forest in the table, but visiting boss Nuno Espirito Santo insists he's paying no attention to the standings.
He said: “I'm focused on the next game. It's not about the table now. We have a lot of football to be played and try to play better the entire 90 minutes. This is what I am focused on.”
