Liverpool Team News: Klopp Confirms The Keeper To Start Against Southampton

Loris Karius might have kept a clean-sheet in the FA Cup game against Plymouth Argyle and there are many who expect him to start in the EFL Cup match against Southampton at St Mary’s. The former Mainz goalkeeper didn’t really have much to do in the game against the lower-league side but playing against the Saints could be good for his confidence.

Jurgen Klopp has rotated his goalkeepers for the cup and league games as Simon Mignolet was the designated keeper for the cups but with the Belgian a first choice goalkeeper now, the tables have turned on Karius.

When the German manager was asked about Karius playing in the game against Southampton, Klopp stated that it was pretty likely for the former Mainz man to feature in between the sticks. While talking to the reporters (quoted by Liverpool’s official website), he said-

“It’s pretty likely I would say that Loris plays again. It’s fair for his response in training, performances and all that stuff. It’s likely, not sure.”

While Mignolet should return to the bench for this game, that should not be a problem for the former Sunderland man. The Belgian has done pretty well since returning to the first team and had kept a clean sheet against Manchester City, though he did let in two penalties against Sunderland recently.

Surprising to see Mignolet being dropped

Overall, Mignolet has had a decent season and it was a surprise that Klopp dropped him in favour of the younger Loris Karius. That move did not work out too well as Karius wasn’t impressive in between the sticks and was even at fault for the points dropped against Bournemouth and West Ham.

The Belgian was upset at being dropped by Klopp but is certainly proving the doubters wrong this season. The real test for the former Sunderland man will come in the Premier League clash against Manchester United.

The Red Devils are in great form and they will look to test Mignolet not only with crosses but long rangers. His ability to keep calm and deal with the United attack could be the difference between a win and a loss.

If Liverpool and Mignolet ensure they can keep the goals out then the Reds do have a chance of actually finishing in the top four or even higher.

The Reds certainly have one of the best attacks in the Premier League and should Mignolet continue his great form until the end of the season, he could remain Liverpool’s number one keeper for a few more years.