NEWCASTLE UNITED have extended Loris Karius' short-term contract to the end of the season.
Karius initially joined the Magpies on a short-term deal that was due to expire this month when he signed for the club as a free agent in September.
He has not made a competitive first-team appearance for the club, and it had been anticipated he would be released following the return of Martin Dubravka from a loan move at Manchester United.
However, Magpies head coach Eddie Howe has opted to keep Karius as part of his first-team set-up, even though the German's retention means Newcastle currently have five senior goalkeepers on their books.
Howe has conceded that situation is unsustainable, and Karl Darlow is expected to leave on loan before the transfer window closes on Janaury 31.
Darlow's only senior appearance this season came in Newcastle's Carabao Cup second-round win over Tranmere Rovers.
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