Simon sets himself five-year target
Speak to Liverpool goalkeeper Simon Mignolet and he exudes a sense of tunnel vision, a relentless determination to improve, no matter what has been accomplished in the past.
The Belgian's rapid ascent through the levels of football brought him to Anfield last summer, following three years of impressive Barclays Premier League experience building at Sunderland.
A natural shot-stopper with reflexes that are second to none, Mignolet was an instant hit on Merseyside when he protected an opening-day victory last season with a late penalty save.
Many pointed to the stunning sprawl to his right against Stoke City on August 17, 2013 as a defining moment in the Reds' season, which concluded with a second-place finish for Brendan Rodgers' team.
The 26-year-old ended the campaign with 10 clean sheets, aiding his side in their quest to secure Champions League qualification, although he is already considering methods for progression.
"It was my first year at Liverpool and the first time in my career that I've played for such a big club," Mignolet told FIFA.com.
"I'm satisfied with my first season, though I'm well aware that I can still improve a lot. I'm only 26 and that's still young for a goalkeeper.
"I don't really have any personal goals. I just think about team goals, and we've achieved one by making it to the Champions League.
"I'm proud of what I've accomplished. It has come quickly, but I've still got a long way to go. The only thing I can do to improve is to keep on working.
"That's what I've been doing for the last five years and it's what I'm going to carry on doing for the next five."
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