Magpies place after move back to Belgium failed to materialise

Newcastle. I had a great year at Anderlecht last season and I have come back stronger,” Sels said after playing the second half of United’s opening pre-season friendly victory over St Patrick’s Athletic.

“We will see what the new season will bring with me in a stronger position in myself. No, we [Benitez and I] haven’t spoken about my situation and potential gametime.

“I know Martin did well last year so we will see what happens. At this moment Martin is the clear No 1, but we will see.

“It’s true that I want to be a success here. In the beginning it is difficult because you have to adapt to a new style of play, and also it was my first time abroad.

“I think I’m stronger now but we will see what the possibilities will be in the coming weeks.

“Maybe there are clubs who will show interest and we will see because there are five [goalkeepers] at training and that is too many. I’m a Newcastle player, I am trying to work hard and improve. But we will wait and see what happens - but my mind is with Newcastle right now.”

Last season, Sels played in the Champions League with Anderlecht and also forced his way into Belgium’s initial World Cup squad, even if he did not make the final 23.

Playing at such a high level helped the shot-stopper regain his confidence after he was dropped just nine games into his Newcastle career and then farmed out on loan.

“I had played in the Champions League before Newcastle so they were not my first games in the Champions League, but it was good to be back playing at that level,” Sels added. “It is maybe the highest level outside of the World Cup and so it was a great experience. I knew when I went to Anderlecht that I would be playing in the Champions League so it was great.”