Klopp backs Karius to silence critics

LIVERPOOL: Jurgen Klopp has urged Liverpool goalkeeper Loris Karius to “close his ears” to criticism ahead of Sunday’s Premier League clash with West Ham.

Bournemouth clinched a dramatic 4-3 victory over Liverpool last weekend after Karius fumbled a shot from Steve Cook in stoppage-time which allowed Nathan Ake to bundle the ball into the net.

Karius, who joined Liverpool from Bundesliga outfit Mainz in May, displaced Simon Mignolet as Klopp’s first choice and is set to keep his place at Anfield this weekend despite the costly mistake.

“I heard the criticism was very harsh. When we analysed the game I found eight players who could have defended the goal before Loris was involved. He made a mistake too. Even the best goalkeepers in the world still make mistakes. We know we have to deal with pressure.

“There is no perfect recipe for development but close your ears helps a lot. I am quite good at this actually. Hopefully he can adapt to my skills,” Klopp said.

Liverpool are boosted by the return of centre-back Joel Matip, who missed the defeat to Bournemouth with an ankle injury.

But England striker Daniel Sturridge will miss the fixture against the Hammers after he was ruled out of Liverpool’s next two matches with a calf injury.

Sturridge has not featured for the Reds since a 12-minute cameo in the goalless draw with Southampton on Nov 19.

No specific timescale has been put on the 27-year-old’s return by Klopp, although the German hinted he may be available for the Merseyside derby on Dec 19. — AFP