Liverpool’s Europa Squad Welcomes Experienced 37-Year-Old Adrian
Liverpool FC has been forced to make a significant change to their Europa League squad due to the injury of their star goalkeeper, Alisson Becker. Jurgen Klopp, the manager of Liverpool, revealed the extent of Alisson’s injury, which has led to the inclusion of 37-year-old goalkeeper Adrian in the squad. Initially, Adrian was not part of the Reds’ Europa League squad due to limits on foreign players. However, with Joel Matip’s season-ending injury, Adrian has replaced the defender in the updated squad just in time for Thursday’s last-16 tie against Sparta Prague.
Adrian’s last appearance for Liverpool was in the Community Shield back in July 2022. In the last three seasons, he has only played twice, with his other appearance being against Preston in the League Cup in October 2021. Although Adrian has spent most of this season on the bench, he has been called upon 15 times when either Alisson or Caoimhin Kelleher were injured.
Jurgen Klopp’s announcement about Alisson’s injury came along with an assurance that the Brazilian goalkeeper’s season is not over, but it is a “proper muscle injury.” However, Klopp warned reporters that it is a rather serious injury and not one that will heal quickly. As a result, Alisson has already missed five matches and is expected to miss at least another five, extending beyond the March international break. With a minimum of ten more games to be played thereafter, Liverpool’s Europa campaign and potential progress in the FA Cup could see Alisson sidelined for an even longer period.
In January, Liverpool loaned young goalkeepers Marcelo Pitaluga (to St Patrick’s Athletic) and Vitezslav Jaros (to Sturm Graz). These loan moves were made earlier in the season, and both goalkeepers had appeared on the bench for Liverpool six times collectively. If they had remained at the club, they would likely have been ahead of Adrian in the pecking order, given their recent involvement with the squad.
Liverpool’s decision to include Adrian in the Europa League squad highlights the need for experienced backup options in case of injuries to key players. Adrian’s presence will provide much-needed depth to the squad, allowing Klopp to have a reliable backup goalkeeper to rely on if Alisson or Kelleher are unavailable.
As Liverpool continues to compete on multiple fronts, including domestic and European competitions, the inclusion of Adrian is a sensible move that ensures the team has adequate cover in crucial positions. With the Europa League being a realistic avenue for silverware this season, Klopp will be hoping that Adrian can step up to the challenge and contribute positively to Liverpool’s campaign.
In conclusion, Liverpool has added 37-year-old goalkeeper Adrian to their Europa League squad due to Alisson’s injury. Adrian’s experience and previous appearances for the club make him a valuable addition amidst the team’s ongoing challenges. With Alisson’s recovery expected to be a lengthy process, Adrian’s presence will be crucial in maintaining Liverpool’s competitiveness in both domestic and European competitions.