Jurgen Klopp has taken fans by surprise with an unusual selection decision for Liverpool’s Premier League meeting with Arsenal.
While all eyes have been on how the Reds boss will lineup defensively, it has instead proven to be the goalkeeping situation that has turned heads.
Usual first choice Simon Mignolet has been dropped, with Loris Karius expected to start and Danny Ward taking a place on the bench at Anfield on Sunday afternoon, according to the Liverpool Echo.
Mignolet is not reported to have any injury or fitness issues, making his absence incredibly confusing given not only his sparkling finish to the 2016/2017 campaign, but also his relatively solid start in the early stages of the new season.
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A start for Karius would be his first in the league since December’s 2-2 draw with West Ham, coming at a bizarre time in an important game against a top six rival.
The young German has been far from convincing since his arrival last summer, but seemingly remains highly-regarded by his manager.
It marks a valuable opportunity for the former Mainz keeper to not only prove doubters wrong, but also make a significant statement on a big stage.
Klopp has made his faith in him clear. Let’s hope it pays off.