Liverpool goalkeeper Adrian is surely set to start for Jurgen Klopp’s side against Manchester City on Saturday.
The 35-year-old looks ready to be part of Liverpool’s Community Shield team after reports that Caoimhin Kelleher is virtually certain to miss out with injury.
Alisson Becker has also missed the last two weeks, leaving Adrian as Klopp’s only senior option.
The Spanish stopper played again last night as Liverpool lost 1-0 against RB Salzburg. No blame for the defeat could be attached to Adrian, though. He was excellent throughout and looks confident ahead of the weekend.
Liverpool’s goalies dropping like flies
Liverpool’s goalkeeping situation is a little bit of a conundrum for Klopp ahead of Saturday.
In an ideal world, Alisson would have been prepped and ready for the game with several matches already behind him.
Instead, the Brazilian has played just 45 minutes of The Reds pre-season schedule. Klopp had indicated that Alisson may be ready for Saturday, but has since ruled the goalkeeper out.
Kelleher’s situation is also painfully straightforward. At this point, it would be a major surprise if he was anywhere near the team this weekend.
Adrian gets his chance to shine
As a result, Saturday is very likely to be Adrian’s chance. The £58k-a-week man doesn’t often get the opportunity to play competitively for Liverpool, and although it’s technically a friendly, there’s silverware on the line.
The thought of Adrian keeping goal for Liverpool against City may send shivers down some supporters’ spines. But the veteran has been much improved in pre-season.
After three years, he does finally look to have mastered having the ball at his feet. His passing against Salzburg was crisp and incisive, and he cut a calm presence – a very welcome change.
Shot-stopping hasn’t ever really been his problem, and he displayed some good reflexes once again in Austria to keep the score at one.
Adrian hasn’t always been the most popular member of Klopp’s squad with the fans. But he’s proven his worth both on and off the pitch throughout his Liverpool career.
The former West Ham goalie may not get many more chances in the first-team this season. He deserves the chance to deliver a trophy on Saturday.