John Karelse is the third choice goalkeeper at United and was signed by Ruud Gullit in August 1999. The Dutchman is a capable deputy for either Shay Given or Steve Harper if they are unavailable.

Karelse endured a nightmare start to his United career when he conceded four goals at Southampton as United crashed to an early season defeat at the Dell in that August. Soon after his arrival, Gullit departed and Sir Bobby Robson took over.

The former Dutch Under 21 keeper only played 3 games in 1999-00 and has been playing Reserve team football since then. That may change though, as youngster Adam Collin has signed a full time contract and will be battling with Karelse for the third goakeeper spot and Reserve keeper. Karelse will be hoping he can still be the standby keeper though, as he will want more first team experience at Toon.