Former Watford goalkeeper Ben Foster has admitted he has no regrets over turning down Newcastle United in the summer.
The Magpies were keen on signing the Englishman after Karl Darlow got injured.
However, Foster decided to stay retired and Newcastle went ahead to sign Loris Karius.
The German is in contention to play in Sunday’s Carabao Cup final against Manchester United after Nick Pope was sent off last weekend.
Martin Dubravka is cup-tied having spent the first half of the season on loan with the Red Devils.
Foster could have been in Karius’ shoes had he joined Newcastle, but he insists he is happy with his decision to retire.
“No chance Laura, no way on this Earth,” the 39-year-old told talkSPORT when asked if he regrets not joining the Magpies.
“Just a bit of context behind that. A bit earlier in the season I could’ve signed for Newcastle when Karl Darlow got a little injury.
“I was very close to doing it as well. I ummed and ahhed about it and eventually sort of decided I’d hung up my gloves and I’d done it for a reason and I was happy with that reason.”
Tottenham Hotspur were also linked with a move for the former Man United goalie this month.
The north London club are without their first choice Hugo Lloris due to a long-term injury.
However, new Premier League rules blocked Spurs from signing Foster and they will hope Fraser Forster stays fit.
Their two back-up goalies Brandon Austin and Alfie Whiteman have just one senior appearance for Tottenham between them.
Antonio Conte’s side would have loved to sign Foster on a short-term deal. However, it appears he would have turned them down.
He is enjoying retirement from the look of things and is planning to stay retired.
Newcastle must find a way to win against the Red Devils with the former Liverpool keeper.
