Martin Dubravka is confident that Newcastle United can pile more misery on Arsenal with a surprise win in North London this weekend.
The Magpies have taken points from Manchester United, Man City, Spurs and Chelsea this season, proving they’re more adept at soaking up pressure against the traditional big guns than taking on the top flight’s minnows.
And with a ten day winter break to hone their plans ahead of the Emirates clash, Dubravka – who will return to the starting XI – is sure that Newcastle can inflict a seventh defeat of the season on a Gunners side in transition.
“It’s going to be a big game. I’ve said many times in previous interviews that you can win against these big teams,” he told NUFCTV.
“You have to be at 100 per cent in every position, but you can still win these games – and that’s what we will be trying to do.”
Newcastle were last seen at Oxford as they earned a thrilling but nervy victory against League One opposition to book a fifth round FA Cup place.
The weekend break has given players a chance to rest up while injured stars are set to return.
Dubravka said: “It was perfect because obviously we needed that victory, and after that we wanted to enjoy that time (off). It was perfect to win the last game, and make sure we could have a good mood in the holiday – and obviously, coming back from the holiday in the same mood was perfect too.
“Now we are in a good position. I’m glad that we went through in the cup game – it was very important for us, for everyone, and for the fans as well. Now we have something to celebrate and to look forward to.
“But we have to be focussed. Other games are coming and we need to be focussed and ready for it. We know what we are playing for.”
The break was perfect for Dubravka. “When you are playing in different leagues (in Europe) you get a couple of weeks off, or a couple of days – I’ve had that before as well, so I know how helpful this can be,” he said.
“I’m glad that they decided to give us some days off because especially when you play against top teams at Christmas time, you are tired. If you don’t get a good result, it’s hard mentally as well, so it was perfect timing.
“Football is not only a physical thing – also mentally, it’s very difficult sometimes, especially when you don’t get a result.”
