He’s come in for his share of criticism since joining Liverpool and has had his ups and downs. But there is no doubting that Simon Mignolet is LFC’s best shot-stopper since the legendary Ray Clemence.
At least that’s according to John Aldridge who admits to being a huge fan of Mignolet.
Speaking via the Liverpool Echo Aldridge said: “Cards on the table here, I’m a Simon Mignolet fan. I think he gets a lot of unfair criticism at times, and I think he’s a quality goalkeeper.
“In fact, I think he’s the best shot-stopper Liverpool have had since Ray Clemence.”
Considering some of the goalies the club has seen come through its doors since Clemence was at Anfield, that may raise some eyebrows.
Particularly when you take into account the likes of Bruce Grobbelaar and, in recent years, Pepe Reina. Not to mention the man known for his legendary shot-stopping in the 2005 Istanbul final, Jerzy Dudek.
But Aldo seems fairly adamant that Mignolet is at the top of his game at the moment and, while perhaps not quite at the same overall level as Grobbelaar, is a better shot-stopper.
He continued: “That might raise a few eyebrows, particularly since I played with Bruce Grobbelaar. Now I’m not saying Mignolet is a better all-round keeper than Brucey, who was brilliant at coming for crosses and with his feet, but for me the Belgian is a better shot-stopper.
“And let’s be fair, stopping shots is the biggest part of a goalkeeper’s job.
“His saves secured us that point against Tottenham, just as they had in the previous game against Everton. That’s two big games where the lad has been our best player, and made brilliant saves.
“Yes, he can have one or two difficult moments with the ball at his feet, but when it comes to making saves, he’s top drawer. I hope people give him a bit of credit for the way he’s playing.
“I think he’ll benefit from Klopp’s presence. He might just simplify his game and give him a bit more confidence, and if he does that then we’ll have no problems with him.”
Many are likely to disagree with Aldridge, with many fan’s and fellow former Reds already pin-pointing goalkeeper as an area that needs looking at again in the next transfer window.
But if he’s right, and Mignolet improves further under Klopp, then it can save Liverpool even more work going forward.
Do you agree with Aldo regarding Mignolet or should the club be replacing him as soon as possible. Let us know your thoughts below.
Are you pulling my leg?
We need horn to replace him
Distribution pathetic but he can get away with it when Benteke is on the pitch
He can get better but obviously, not LFC’s best shot-stopper.His distribution is awful.Watching More of pepe reina’s clips&constant practice will aid his improvement.Hes good but certainly nt LFC’s best shot-stopper.t
2 me I agree wit him, he is d best if put d defense in consideration in the past we hv beter defender then in liverp fc than now, so yes sport on he is correct
what language is that mate ?