Jurgen Klopp’s decision to start Alisson Becker for Liverpool against Fulham today shows just how big-a player he is for The Reds.
The 29-year-old hasn’t played since July 12th against Manchester United. But he’s so important for Liverpool that he’s straight into the team at Craven Cottage.
It’s a relief for Liverpool supporters given that Alisson only played one friendly this summer. There was some worry that with Caoimhin Kelleher also out, Liverpool might be a little short in the goalkeeping department.
But Klopp was always insistent that Alisson would be ready, and so it has proved.
Alisson coming in cold to 2022/23
Of course it’s slightly different for a goalkeeper. But still, it’s hard to think that Klopp would start any other player with so little game time under his belt.
The worry for Liverpool will be that without those warm-up games, Alisson may be a little cold coming into the season. He hasn’t had the games to shake any rustiness off following the summer break.
Fortunately, Alisson is one of, if not the best around. For many, he was Liverpool’s best player in what was a stellar campaign for the club in 2021/22.
The Brazil number one was called ‘key’ by Naby Keita via Liverpool FC on Twitter. The number of times he saved Liverpool, especially in one-on-one situations makes him possibly Klopp’s most irreplaceable player.
Certainly, it’s hard to think another player who’s absence would hurt Liverpool as much as Alisson’s.
The Reds are much stronger with their big Brazilian between the sticks. Although Adrian has performed admirably in his stead, Liverpool need him. His inclusion today after barely any warm-up time shows just how much his presence is valued by Klopp.
Kick-off is fast approaching – come on you Reds!