Matz Sels turned down Premier League teams to join Newcastle
Tuesday 2 August 2016 18:05, UK
Matz Sels has revealed he snubbed Premier League interest in order to join Newcastle United.
The 24-year-old shot stopper was linked to top-fight clubs Southampton and Middlesbrough, but instead opted to join Rafael Benitez at St James Park.
With Tim Krul and Rob Elliot out injured, the £4.5m signing from Genk is expected to start in Newcastle's Championship opener against Fulham on Friday night, which airs live on Sky Sports 1 HD from 7pm.
"There were also a few teams from the Premier League that were interested, but Newcastle is a really big club," Sels said in an interview with the Shields Gazette.
"It's strange that they were relegated, but that's football.
"I heard about the interest from Newcastle, had a talk with Rafa Benitez and was convinced of my choice."
While Sels is looking forward to making his competitive debut in the Championship, ultimately he hopes Newcastle can re-gain their Premier League status.
"It's a team that doesn't belong in the second division. Normally, it's always a Premier League team - a top club in the Premier League. I was convinced of my choice," he said.
"But I'm looking forward to Friday and the first game.
"In my career I always try to go step by step. Newcastle is a big club, so it's a good step forward for me. Hopefully, I can bring the team where it belongs."
