Matz Sels joined Newcastle from Genk for £6.5m

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.

Newcastle's number one goalkeeper Tim Krul has been injured since October

"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.

With injuries to first-team goalkeepers, Sels is expected claim a starting spot in Newcastle's opener against Fulham

"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."