Liverpool’s goalkeeping woes continued against Aston Villa but it might be resolved sooner than the fans would expect.
There were moans. Uncomfortable winces and head scratches when the news of Alisson Becker’s injury permeated around Merseyside on Sunday evening. The Liverpool goalkeeper’s latest setback is one which has ignited rumours of Liverpool trying their luck in the summer 2020 transfer window one final time.
However, the club’s problems could be solved closer to home.
While Adrian didn’t cover himself in glory against Aston Villa (his name is undoubtedly besmirched in ignominy until the end of time at Anfield) it would be harsh to blame the defeat solely on the veteran Spanish stopper.
Liverpool’s problems were far from just having a dodgy goalkeeper in goal.
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Nonetheless, it is clear the club needs a solid and reliable back-up to Alisson Becker if they are to continue their trophy haul under Jurgen Klopp.
And it is an issue which could be solved by taking a closer look at the club’s academy keepers.
Caoimhin Kelleher is the first name that springs to mind with the Irishman having impressed in several outings during the previous few pre-seasons.
Kelleher however is only the first in a number of impressive academy keepers at the club.
The signing of Alisson Becker’s compatriot Marcelo Pitaluga is an exciting one to many and the 17 year old could have the potential to take on the mantle in the future. For now though the youngster will first have to adapt to new playing conditions.
Two ideal candidates could be Vitezslav Jaros who has been a superb performer in the U23s this season. With the 19 year old having already tasted men’s football it might be worth throwing him on at the deep end.
A younger but perhaps even more talented name is Jakub Ojrzynski. The Polish stopper has been phenomenal for the club’s U18 side over the past two seasons. Perhaps it might be too early to hand the youngster a debut in the Premier League but with Alisson continuously facing time on the sidelines, the Pole could be given a chance in the next few years.
Fundamentally, Liverpool have often been blessed with talented academy goalkeepers who were never given a proper chance. Peter Gulacsi is a prime example. The Hungarian was regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in his age group in the world. Yet he was never given an opportunity at Anfield.
Since departing Liverpool, Gulacsi has proven his doubters at Anfield wrong, becoming one of the best keepers in the Bundesliga and the Champions League.
Liverpool will not want to make the same mistake again. With Adrian’s poor form, perhaps it’s time to give one of the youngster’s their shot.
Who would you start in goal against Everton?