Elliott to Rob Krul?

Perhaps some of you have noticed the absence of Tim Krul, and the inclusion of Rob Elliot in the most recent Newcastle lineups. Tim Krul is currently injured, and should be back by early April, if all goes well. While that may not be a long time, Newcastle have two key fixtures between now and then ...

 A tough Europa League fixture in Lisbon against Benfica awaits, a vital game for Newcastle's success this season, but before that, away to Manchester City, who will be desperate to prove that the title race isn't over. Two very difficult and different matches, and Newcastle fans will be crossing their fingers that goalkeeper Elliot can replicate Tim Krul's fine recent form between the sticks.
 Joined from Charlton in the summer of 2011, for a fee rumored to be around £500,000, Elliot only made three performances between then and Tim Krul's injury. This might've made Newcastle fans nervous about the reliability of a keeper yet to make a Premier League appearance before the Southampton match on 24 February.
However, Elliot has become something of a sensation at St James Park, after some top-drawer performances that have resulted in many supporters instantly forgetting about their injured Dutch number one. Flaunting his shot-stopping abilities and superb reactions, Newcastle fans will be reassured that they have a back-up keeper more than ready to come in to the side, or even challenge Tim Krul for top spot.
  Before his injury, Tim Krul had let in 7 goals in his last six matches. Many of you will be surprised to hear that Rob Elliot has let in 6 goals in his last six matches. Yes, it's not a long time to make an accurate comparison, however, it shows the squad depth Newcastle have, which can't be said for every team.
  One Newcastle fan, when asked about Elliot said, "Elliot is a great second keeper, however I'm not sure he's good enough to be a week in week out Premier League goalie." If that means he stays put at Newcastle, supporters will be happy enough, as Elliot has proved himself more than worthy as Tim Krul's deputy. All we can do is wish him the best in his next two games, up against the likes of Sergio Aguero, Carlos Tevez and Oscar Cardozo.

Leander Winden (@leanderwinden)