Clause yet to be triggered as Howe confirms contract talks after surprise omission on Tuesday

Loris Karius' future at Newcastle remains up in the air just 10 days until his short-term deal at St James' Park is due to expire.

After signing until December 31st back in September and impressing out in Saudi, it was thought we'd trigger a contract clause to extend his deal until at least the end of the 2022/23 season.

However, Eddie Howe revealed last night that no extension has been signed, as of yet, confirming that the club are assessing the situation and in discussions with the player.

After confirming that Elliot Anderson's absence was due to fitness issues, Howe admitted that both Loris Karius and Ryan Fraser "were fine" - despite both missing out on our matchday squad.

The German stopper was had been tipped to start the cup clash after impressing in our 5-0 win over Al-Hilal, so it came as a surprise to see him left out entirely last night.

Here's what Howe had to say when asked about Karius' contract situation on Tuesday night:

“I don’t believe anything further has happened on his contract.

"I think that’s something we’re assessing and in discussions with.”

At the end of the day, Karius was brought in on an emergency basis to cover for an injured Karl Darlow. Now the latter is fit, the club have a decision to make on the former Liverpool man pushing to extend his time on Tyneside.