‘I believe competition makes us all better’: Liverpool goalkeeper Adrian believes the tussle to be number one at Anfield will help push fellow stopper Alisson to even greater heights
- Adrian has hailed the ‘extraordinary relationship’ between himself and Alisson
- The 33 year old is not thinking about retirement and hopes to stay at Liverpool
- The Spaniard has just one year remaining on his contract with the champions
- Adrian hails team mate Alisson as ‘one of the best goalkeepers in the world’
Liverpool‘s back up stopper Adrian is confident he can help fellow goalkeeper Alisson to develop his game even further.
The Spaniard, who joined the Reds in the summer of 2019 is enjoying working side by side with ‘one of the best goalkeepers in the world.’
And Adrian insists competition for places at Anfield is the key to raising standards and that vying for the same spot will help push Alisson to become a better keeper despite having a case for already being the best in the world.
Adrian (right) believes competition between himself and Alisson will help his team mate
The Brazilian international is undoubtedly Jurgen Klopp’s first choice, however Adrian provided adequate cover last season when called upon, making 11 league appearances as Liverpool won their first Premier League title.
Adrian told Sky Sports ahead of the Carabao Cup clash against Arsenal: ‘When I signed here, obviously I knew that this is a great team and there would be a lot of competition for places. I have Alisson as my team-mate and he is one of the best goalkeepers in the world at the moment.
‘I believe competition makes us all better. There is healthy competition in every position at this club. It can make things difficult for the manager, but he knows that every player who goes out on the pitch is going to give everything.
‘My job, personally, is to be at the service of the team and be ready when the opportunities come up – but when Ali plays, I support him completely from the bench and he knows that.
Alisson has been a key component of Liverpool’s recent success, replacing Loris Karius in 2018
‘We have an extraordinary relationship as team-mates and that’s the beautiful thing about football. The enjoyment of the job goes beyond starting every game.’
The former West Ham keeper believes he still has lot to offer despite turning 33 at the start of the year – he has one year remaining on his contract but he is keen to remain on Merseyside.
‘For now, I am still thinking about the short-term, not my retirement.
‘I am 33 and I feel in great shape. You have to be lucky with injuries and fitness, of course, but I am very happy at Liverpool and I am sure I am going to enjoy this job for a lot longer.’
Adrian became an instant hero at Liverpool by starring in the Super Cup victory over Chelsea