Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has insisted that incoming goalkeeper Simon Mignolet will provide healthy competition to current first-choice keeper Pepe Reina at Anfield.
Reports have suggested that the imminent arrival of the 25 year old Belgian would signal the end of Reina’s time with the Reds, but Rodgers was quick to rubbish such reports, claiming that the Spaniard is “fully aware” of Rodgers’ plans.
“One of the things we’re trying to build is a competitive squad” Rodgers told TalkSport.
“Pepe is a fantastic goalkeeper but Simon Mignolet is a player that has done really well. He’s also part of an emerging Belgium squad that has come into a golden era. He’s very much a part of that”
“Pepe Reina and I went out for a meal a couple of months before the end of the season and I told him exactly what we were going to do, which was to provide real competition in that area”
“He was fully aware of my intention over the course of the last few months. It certainly wouldn’t be a surprise to Pepe [Mignolet’s arrival]”
Meanwhile Reina, on international duty with Spain in Brazil, told reporters that the situation did not change his plans, claiming that “it doesn’t change a bit”, before showing enthusiasm concerning the signing of another first choice goalkeeper:
“I said it many times, I’m very comfortable and happy with Liverpool. Every team needs competition and when it’s positive, it’s very welcome. I’m going to welcome him, anything he needs I’m here.”
Magnus Bech
