Newcastle United goalkeeper Matz Sels has explained his decision to leave on-loan this summer.

The 25-year-old joined Belgian champions Anderlecht on a season-long loan deal.

He explained to Humo: “I played fifteen matches at Newcastle. That's not much.

“I could have stayed and competed, but I estimated my playing opportunities at Anderlecht were higher.

“For the time being I am not worried, there will be enough matches. But it is true that I wanted to keep my World Cup opportunities cool by coming here.

“That was what Roberto Martínez had told me: that I definitely had to play, and that he did not see that happening at Newcastle.

“Now, even if I play at Anderlecht, it does not give me the certainty that I will be there. But by staying with Newcastle and sitting on the bench again, I certainly did not stand a chance."