Tim Krul has told Dutch media outlet Omroepwest that he intends to return to Newcastle United in the summer and fight for his place.

What's the word?

The 28-year-old was shipped out on loan at the start of the season after spending a lengthy spell on the sidelines with cruciate knee ligament damage.

The Dutchman was given an opportunity to build up his fitness at Ajax, but he failed to make a single start during his spell there.

AZ Alkmaar was the next club to take him on, and he has had better joy having started nine games in all competitions.

Krul has been on the losing side four times and has tasted just one victory in between the sticks at AZ, but he did help the club reach the Dutch Cup final by saving a penalty.

When asked about his future by Omroepwest, Krul said:

“Newcastle is where I’m going to go in the summer.”

Should Krul return to fight for his place?

The shot-stopper has plenty of experience behind him and he has been a Newcastle player since joining the youth setup in 2005.

However, he faces a touch challenge in trying to win back his number one spot, which has been taken by Karl Darlow.

Matz Sels and Rob Elliot make up a congested selection of goalkeepers vying for the top spot, and Krul could be at the back of the line given his absence this season.

Another issue to consider is injuries, of which the Dutchman has been hampered with for long periods of time.

On the flip side, if Rafael Benitez guides Newcastle back into the Premier League, Krul has the top-flight experience to offer.

[ad_pod id='playwire' align=‘center']