Goalkeeper Sels will be concentrating on fighting for a

MATZ Sels admits he faces an uncertain future - but insists his “mind is with” Newcastle United after making his first Magpies appearance in 18 months. The 26-year-old is surplus to requirements at St James’ Park this summer but, after a permanent move to Anderlecht collapsed earlier in the window, little interest has arrived from elsewhere in the Belgium international.

Given that there are just three weeks left in the transfer window, Sels - who still has three years remaining on his United contract - accepts that he may have to remain on Tyneside and fight for a firstteam place.

But Benitez, who took five goalkeepers out to the Republic of Ireland for the pre-season training camp at Carton House, needs to offload some of his shot-stoppers this summer.

Martin Dubravka is established as No 1, while Freddie Woodman is likely to head out on loan in order to gain further experience, meaning one of Sels, Rob Elliot or Karl Darlow will need to depart in the coming weeks.

The likelihood still remains that Sels will leave before the window closes but, after impressing during a seasonlong loan at Anderlecht, the 26-year-old believes he is now a “stronger” goalkeeper and will try and force his way back into Benitez’s plans while he remains on Tyneside.

“It’s nice to be back at