Jürgen Klopp has explained why he believes the signing of Alex Manninger will enable Liverpool’s younger goalkeepers to enhance their development.

The Reds have completed a short-term deal for the vastly-experienced 39-year-old, subject to international clearance.

Manninger, who has represented the likes of Arsenal, Juventus and, most recently, FC Augsburg during a distinguished career will now provide competition for Simon Mignolet and Loris Karius at Melwood.

The swoop for the Austrian comes after young ‘keepers Danny Ward and Ryan Fulton went out on loan to Huddersfield Town and Chesterfield respectively to garner first-team experience, while Adam Bogdan has moved to Wigan Athletic for a season.

Klopp told Liverpoolfc.com: “Alex has played at a high level in his career in the top division in England, Germany, Spain, Italy and Austria for some very big teams – not many people can say that!  

“He brings us great experience and I know that as a person he is someone who every day will show what a great professional he is and will be important for the squad.

 

“We have sent out some of the goalkeepers on loan and get games, which is important because in this position you only come off the bench if there is an injury or a red card.  

“They changed the rules so we cannot bring an U21 goalkeeper back from a team in England during the season if we have a problem, so we had to make a decision – keep somebody back to protect us or bring in someone else who can give us experience and I think this is the best solution to allow others to develop.  

“In this way, this is good for everyone and I am really happy that he comes into the group.”

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