From outcast to No.1! Loris Karius handed Schalke contract extension and new shirt number after just four games in injury-plagued spell with second tier side

The ex-Liverpool goalkeeper joined the club in January after six months as a free agent and played four competitive matches before suffering a calf injury. “I’m really pleased that we were able to agree on a joint future together during our positive conversations,” said Karius.

Despite only four appearances and a muscle injury in a 3-3 draw with Greuther Furth in March, Schalke handed the 31-year-old a long-term deal and the No. 1 shirt. Karius impressed the staff with his professionalism, experience, and leadership both on and off the pitch, earning the club’s long-term trust.

“Our conversations with Loris were really positive, so we’re happy to have agreed on a contract extension. Loris has a number of excellent attributes as a goalkeeper and is also a true team player. We’re delighted that we will continue working with him,” explained Youri Mulder, director of professional football,in a statement. “Loris has worked really hard on his recovery from injury to be ready to return to training for the start of pre-season."

Karius made just seven competitive appearances across all clubs over four years before joining Schalke. He replaced Justin Heekeren as first-choice in February but was sidelined by injury. He’s expected to return to full training in about 10 days and is set to lead the club’s promotion charge as the club rebuilds for next season. Fans are eager to see him solidify the defence and finally relaunch his career after years of setbacks.