This is what Tim Krul had to say after classy chant from Newcastle United fans

The former Newcastle United goalkeeper yesterday played at the stadium for the first time since September 2015.

Krul kept a clean sheet for Norwich City, who claimed a point from a goalless draw at St James’s Park.

The visitors left the stadium wondering how they hadn’t won the game. There were some boos from frustrated home fans at the final whistle – and also a chant of “Timmy, Timmy Krul”.

Krul was told to find a new club by then-manager Rafa Benitez in 2016 after recovering from a long-term knee injury.

And the 31-year-old – who was hurt by the manner of his departure – says it was an “emotional” experience to again hear his name at the stadium.

“For them to give the appreciation meant a lot, because obviously everybody knows the terms that I left on should never really have happened,” said Krul.

“It did, but what they showed me was that they were totally on the same page. It felt like when I was still playing for Newcastle when I ran out for the second half to the Gallowgate. It was emotional, definitely. It was amazing, and I thank them.”

Krul had been an unused substitute for Brighton and Hove Albion on his only previous visit to St James’s Park as an opposition player two seasons ago.

“When I was on the bench it didn’t feel right,” said Krul. “I didn’t have a great feeling that day, but to get back on the pitch at the place I started my career – and had so many highs, so many memories – was a nice moment.

“After my injury, you always have doubts whether you will fully get back up to speed. It’s just nice. I can’t speak highly enough of the way it was.”

On the game itself, Krul said: “In football you don’t always get what you deserve. With Newcastle, they always have a threat on the wings with (Allan) Saint-Maximin and (Miguel) Almiron.

“But, overall, I felt we created enough to at least score one.”