Loris Karius says he is preparing for the AFC Bournemouth game as if he is set to make his full debut.
The German stopper had a great game in Newcastle United's 5-0 win against Al-Hilal and is now ready to top up those minutes this weekend against Rayo Vallecano. That could set up a return to the big stage of English football for Karius for the first time in four-and-a-half-years when he kept a clean sheet for Liverpool against Brighton in different 5-0 victorious margin.
Howe must decide whether Karius is the man or whether Nick Pope is ready to come in for his first game since early November. Regardless of Howe's selection Karius is determined to be ready.
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Karius told Chronicle Live: "I’m a professional, I want to play every game. That’s what we’re here for, but I’m just preparing myself.
"We got back to England. There’s another pre-season game before Bournemouth, so I don’t want to think that far ahead.
"We’ll be training to keep the level as high as possible, and making sure if I get the call, I’m ready and go in with a good feeling."
Karius is looking likely to sign an extension to his initial short-term deal from last autumn. If he does end up making a comeback to the English game, he knows he will be indebted to Eddie Howe for giving him his chance.
The ex-Union Berlin goalie said: "Of course, I’m thankful (to the boss), but then at the end, I need to deliver. 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."
