Loris Karius admits the clean sheet against Everton was more pleasing than any individual triumph in Saturday’s lacklustre Merseyside derby.
The German played a key role in one of few flash points throughout the contest, producing a stunning finger tip save to deny Yannick Bolasie’s curling effort from finding the far corner.
It marked the latest sign of encouragement in the goalkeeper’s improved run of form since taking over from Simon Mignolet as Liverpool’s no.1.
Discussing his save, Karius told Sky Sports: “I don’t know [if it was my best]. In the game, you just try and help the team.”
“I don’t know how good it was or not, it goes too quick. I was just happy to get a fingertip on it.”
“It’s good to get a save like this but the most important thing for us [was] to get a clean sheet because the back four was new with Clyney coming back in after a long time and Klavan is not [usually] a left-back.”
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Well done @LorisKarius pic.twitter.com/3rMrR7h4lH
— YNWA (@Liverpool_pc10) April 7, 2018
The result brought up Karius’ 13th clean sheet in 22 games, standing as a promising record amid ongoing debate surrounding his long-term credentials.
Karius has reaped the benefits of an extended run in the team, striking much-needed familiarity and continuity in Liverpool’s defensive quarters and asserting himself as a difficult man for Mignolet to dislodge.
In an end of season audition for a starting spot next season, Karius is working admirably to lure Jurgen Klopp’s hands away from dedicating a substantial chunk of his transfer kitty to a new goalkeeper.
Obvious improvement is met with obvious room for improvement, but the talent Klopp clearly spotted at Mainz is beginning to creep through.