Loris Karius opens up on his future after first ever Newcastle appearance

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Loris Karius has admitted that he sees his future at Newcastle United after making his first appearance for the club on Thursday night.

The Magpies took on Al Hilal in a friendly in Riyadh, with Karius starting the game for Eddie Howe’s side. This came as a surprise given that Karl Darlow was also in Saudi Arabia, but it was later confirmed that he was suffering with illness.

That created an opportunity for Karius to start, and he took it with both hands – literally.

The 29-year-old’s reputation was absolutely battered by his time at Liverpool. His confidence was shot to bits. No one knew what to expect when he donned a Toon kit for the first time.

But Karius was exceptional, and one of our best players in the first half. Al Hilal certainly created a lot of chances, and the German stopper was equal to all of them.

Plenty of them were routine saves, but even they were saved smartly and efficiently. There were no spills or scares.

He then got down low to deny Odion Ighalo what looked like a certain goal, before expertly tipping an effort round the post to ensure his sheet remained clean.

It was a wonderful 45 minutes from Karius, who was replaced by Mark Gillespie for the second half.

But it was a job well done for Newcastle’s most recent senior arrival, whose future is up for debate in the coming weeks.

Karius set for contract talks with Newcastle

Karius joined Newcastle on a short term deal back in September, following an injury to Darlow and Martin Dubravka’s departure.

His arrival came as a shock, and last night was the first time we saw him play. And it came on the same day that reports emerged stating that he could be set for a new contract at St James’ Park.

The goalkeeper’s current deal is set to expire at the end of December, but Newcastle World have stated that negotiations will take place, with Eddie Howe happy to keep Karius around.

And now Karius has had his say on what the future holds.

Loris Karius on his future

After the game, Karius spoke to NUFC TV and addressed his future with the Magpies.

“It’s been all positive and we’re going to have some talks and see what we’re going to do,” he said.

“But, of course, I can see myself here for longer and push and hopefully get some more appearances in the future, including a competitive start. That’s my aim, that’s what I’m working for every day and at the same time I’m supporting all the other guys.

“I think there’s a good chance I could stay here longer but we will have that discussion over the next couple of weeks.”

Karius sounds keen to stay, and fans will certainly be keen for him to do just that after his performance against Al Hilal.

In all honesty, expectations were low, but there was a real enthusiasm to see Karius do well given what has happened to him in the past.

He delivered in Riyadh, and now wants to continue being a Magpie. It sounds like a new deal will suit all parties, and it could lead to Karius pushing for a start when Newcastle face Bournemouth in the League Cup on December 21st.