Norwich City goalkeeper Tim Krul is enjoying his second spell in the Premier League more than he did his first, despite the Canaries current standing in the league table.
The Dutch keeper is remembered fondly in the North East after an 11-year association with Newcastle United that saw him rack up 185 appearances during his time at St James' Park.
Krul joined City after spells with Brighton and Hove Albion and AZ Alkmaar, but a significant knee injury saw his career head in a downward trajectory prior to his City move.
Despite an inconsistent start to life in Norfolk, Krul was an ever-present figure in the Canaries title-winning squad last season.
That success saw Krul return to the top-flight with City and he has cemented his place as the club's number one - in spite of the Canaries recruiting Ralf Fahrmann on loan from Schalke in the summer.
The 31-year-old has kept two clean sheets this season and is relishing the busy festive schedule ahead.
"It's my second time in the Premier League now and I'm enjoying it so much more. I really appreciate every game; I'm not taking anything for granted anymore. That's what I'm trying to tell the other lads who haven't been here before.
"The magnitude of these games is so great, and you cannot take them for granted, you must thrive on it," City's keeper told the club's official website.
Krul has adapted seamlessly to life back in the top-flight and has been one of City's most impressive performers this season, something he attributes to being more active in games.
"I'm obviously busier than I was last year," he admitted. "The emphasis was on the attacking play last season but this year, it's a bit more the other way.
"We're under the cosh a bit more so I'm able to show my qualities more often and I'm pleased that I'm important for the team and I'm buzzing that I've been able to show that.
"Not everyone had seen the full qualities that I've got [last season] so it's nice that I'm able to contribute even more to this club. My aim is to get the club as high as possible."
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