Reds manager Jurgen Klopp has backed former Liverpool goalkeeper Loris Karius to perform for Newcastle United in next weekend’s Carabao Cup final against Manchester United.
Speaking during his post-match press conference yesterday, the German claimed the Magpies should have no doubt starting the 29-year-old in Nick Pope’s absence.
The Toon star was sent off in the first half of their Premier League clash against the Merseyside outfit, after making a deliberate handball outside the box.
The England international will now miss the Carabao Cup final next weekend, where Newcastle hope to win their first major trophy since 1969.
As much of a disaster this is for Eddie Howe, it gets even worse. Second-choice keeper Martin Dubravka is also ineligible to play, as he featured in the cup for the Red Devils during his loan spell earlier this season.
As a result, the Magpies have two options. Karius, who joined Newcastle in September, is the most likely starter – despite the fact that he has not yet featured for the club. He last played a competitive match in February 2021 for Union Berlin against Hoffenheim in the Bundesliga.
Alternatively, fourth-choice Mark Gillespie could play. The 30-year-old made three Carabao Cup appearances for Newcastle in 2020.
Klopp’s comments on Karius
When asked about Karius during his post-match press conference, Klopp was full of praise for the former Red.
“Yeah, I heard about that,” the German said.
“I think they can absolutely rely on him, there’s no doubt about that. He’s a great goalie, that’s why Newcastle signed him.
“But of course, unlucky for Nick Pope in the moment. Why can’t Dubravka play? (Cup-tied) Ah.
“Absolutely (a good opportunity for him). This is what he (Karius) was working for all the time, absolutely.”
The last appearance Karius made for an English side was for Liverpool in the Champions League final against Real Madrid back in 2018.
Despite a brilliant campaign up until the final, the goalkeeper was at fault for Los Blancos’ opening goal of the game.
However, Karius now has the opportunity to redeem himself in another cup final.
If he leads Newcastle to Carabao Cup victory, he will be a hero on Tyneside – and he will receive huge praise on Merseyside, too.