Liverpool

Simon Mignolet motivated by competition for first-team place at Liverpool

By Daniel Lewis, Senior Reporter | 11 August 2016

Liverpool goalkeeper Simon Mignolet insists that he will focus on his own game this coming season and not worry about the increased competition for a starting spot.

Liverpool goalkeeper Simon Mignolet has admitted that he is relishing the chance to hold down a starting spot this season.

The Belgium international faces increased competition for the goalie gloves this time around following the arrivals of Loris Karius and veteran stopper Alex Manninger.

Mignolet is expected to be given the nod by Jurgen Klopp for Liverpool's opener at Arsenal on Sunday afternoon, with summer signing Karius currently nursing an injury picked up during pre-season.

Speaking to the club's official website, the 28-year-old said: "In the end, it's all down to you. You have to keep your head down, work hard and make sure you put in the performances yourself. You don't look over your shoulder to anybody else.

"It's about making sure you put in your own best possible performance every day on the training pitch and on a matchday. The dynamic [between the goalkeepers] is really good. Alex is obviously brilliant with his experience, to give knowledge to us.

"Loris unfortunately got injured. We get on really well and we're working really well together with the goalkeeping coach. We have had a few young guys up as well to help us out. The goalies' union is there and is strong."

Mignolet, preparing for his fourth campaign with Liverpool, made 57 appearances for the Reds last time out in all competitions.