Loris Karius could soon sign a new contract with Newcastle United, and the goalkeeper believes that is a reflection on how he has been performing in training.
The German joined the Magpies back in September after Karl Darlow suffered an injury that left Eddie Howe light in the goalkeeping department.
Karius was a free agent after being released by Liverpool, and came in to act as understudy for Nick Pope. The 29-year-old is yet to make a competitive appearance for his new club, but that could be about to change.
Newcastle are back in action next week against Bournemouth in the cup, which could hand Karius the chance to make his competitive debut.
He played his first minutes last week, starting in the 5-0 friendly win over Al Hilal. Karius was really impressive, and made some smart saves to deny the Saudi side.
He only signed a short-term contract in September, but now an extension could be on the horizon to keep him at the club beyond this month. And Karius believes that is a reflection of how he has been performing in training.
Loris Karius on his performance in training
The goalkeeper has been speaking to the Chronicle, and discussed his future at St James’ Park.
“Of course, I’m thankful (to Eddie Howe), but then at the end, I need to deliver,” he said.
“I cannot just be thankful and sit there and not perform. That’s not how I work.
“It was a great chance offered by Newcastle to me, and I have to grab it with both hands and make the best out of it. There’s a chance to stay here possibly, so that’s a good sign. It’s a good reflection of the work in training.”
New contract looming
Karius is right. The fact that he could now be set to extend his stay on Tyneside is a good reflection on how he has been operating behind the scenes. That is the reason Howe wants to keep him – not his 45 minute cameo against Al Hilal.
The former Mainz stopper saw his reputation battered beyond belief by the time he left Liverpool, meaning it was a real shock when rumours emerged that he was heading to St James’ Park.
But his recent performance reduced fans’ fears, while he is clearly impressing during training.
Now there is a chance that he could make his debut on Tuesday night, and there would be no complaints from the Toon Army if his named appeared at the top of the teamsheet.
For Karius, the most important thing will be extending his contract. And that looks very likely now.
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