Liverpool made two goalkeeper moves this week as they gear up for their first preseason matches on their 2019 United States tour. The Reds will play three friendly matches in the space of six days in the US in preparation for their FA Community Shield match against Manchester City on the 4th of August.
The Reds signed young goalkeeper Kamil Grabara to a new long-term contract following his exploits with Poland’s under-21 team at the European U-21 Championship. Grabara has advanced through Liverpool’s academy impressing at every stop along the way.
Grabara’s performance caught the eye of manager Jan Siewart and Huddersfield Town and he will spend 2019-20 on loan at the Championship club. Huddersfield Town released former goalkeeper Jonas Lossl this summer which could give Grabara the chance to be the Terriers’ No. 1.
Meanwhile, journeyman goalkeeper Andy Lonergan has been added to Liverpool’s US tour. Due to Simon Mignolet being the only senior goalkeeper with the club as Alisson Becker recovers from playing at the Copa America with Brazil, Liverpool have had to add Lonergan as an emergency shot-stopper.
The former Leeds United and Wolverhampton Wanderers player will not be given a contract but simply backup Mignolet in the US and work with Liverpool’s coaches. Lonergan isn’t expected to play in the three preseason games and will only take the pitch if Mignolet is injured.
By the time the Reds return to England for their first two preseason games, Alisson is expected back with the team.
Liverpool goalkeeper Daniel Atherton is also on the tour. The 19-year-old has been with Liverpool since the age of 12.
Lonergan’s dream place with Liverpool on tour came due to injuries to Caoimhin Kelleher and Vitezslav Jaros. Had one of those youngsters been fit, Jurgen Klopp would have been able to make due. Lonergan will continue training with the Reds in Evian before their preseason friendly against Lyon.
The free agent last played for Middlesbrough in 2018-19. He spent some time at Rochdale on loan during the term as an emergency goalkeeper.
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