LORIS KARIUS is on standby for Newcastle’s do-or-die Champions League clash with AC Milan - over five years after his blunders cost Liverpool in the final.
Martin Dubravka is a doubt and with No 1 keeper Nick Pope crocked, the German could play his first Champions League game since the 2018 final when his howlers handed Real Madrid a 3-1 victory over the Reds.
The first of his two infamous errors, way back 2,028 days ago, came at 0-0 after Karius was clattered by the elbow of Sergio Ramos early in the second half.
He carelessly rolled the ball for Karim Benzema to put Real in front, then let a long-range strike slip in for Gareth Bale to complete a double.
Karius, now 30, did not play again for Liverpool and has featured just once for the Magpies - in last season’s Carabao Cup final defeat to Manchester United - since arriving as a free agent last September.
Dubravka was not seen at training yesterday.
Asked if he is fit for tomorrow night’s clash, Howe said: “That is slightly unclear.
“It’s not really a position I want to rotate.
"Every team benefits from a settled back four and goalkeeper but let’s see what happens.”
Toon striker Callum Wilson backed Karius to shine if called upon at St James’ Park on Wednesday night.
A win could see Newcastle qualify for the Champions League knockouts if Borussia Dortmund avoid defeat against PSG, while a draw would ensure the Europa League.
Wilson said: “All of our goalkeepers really, even Mark Gillespie, people you don’t see as much of, they’re all top goalkeepers.
“They will give you a run for your money in training during finishing practice.
"Whoever is between the sticks, I’m sure they’ll be more than capable.”