Giorgi Mamardashvili can be Liverpool number one but Alisson doesn't need Saudi Arabia move
Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version or go back to LFC Live.net.
Former Liverpool goalkeeper David James says Giorgi Mamardashvili has the potential to be number one but believes there is no rush for Alisson Becker to leave.
The Georgian arrived at Anfield in the summer as his move from La Liga side Valencia was completed and he could be in line for his debut against Southampton in the Carabao Cup.
With the Reds pushing to successfully defend their Premier League crown, Mamardashvili will have to be patient for his top-flight bow as he sits behind the Brazilian in the chain of command.
While Liverpool have had match-winners at the top end of the pitch, Alisson has been a game-changer at the other end.
But one of the pitfalls is that the former Roma goalkeeper's injury record has been patchy, which has seen Caoimhin Kelleher become one of the best backup shot-stoppers in world football.
READ MORE:Alexis Mac Allister shares 'personal' update after girlfriend's 'one more game' messageREAD MORE:Liverpool stars share true feelings on Mohamed Salah after six-word message
With the Republic of Ireland international now with Brentford, Mamardashvili has taken up the mantle as the number two and James believes that he has the capability to be a starter for Liverpool.
"I think he can be, we're talking young goalkeepers and he has all the attributes to be a top goalkeeper for Liverpool," he told the ECHO, via Esports Bets.
"It's very different when we're talking about James Trafford and Gianluigi Donnarumma because Donnarumma hasn't had any injury issues so as a number two, you're looking for where your opportunities to get a fortunate start rather than a performance start.
"I think with Mamardashvili, he'll be looking at Ali's recent seasons and think, 'even if he's playing the best season that he can, there might be opportunities for me to go and prove my worth'.
I think Liverpool are in a strong position now, Caoimhin was fantastic as a number two but I think with Mamardashvili and with the experience he's had, he's got a chance.
"I love Ali and hope he never retires and plays forever for Liverpool but in reality, you want the best goalkeeper playing the best form and if Mamardashvili is to take Ali's place then he will playing exceptional football.
"I don't think there's any issue if he's capable, it's whether he gets the chance."
The threat of interest from Saudi Arabia has increased in recent years, with Alisson becoming a target for their star-studded influx from Europe.
However, he has remained firm with his intent to achieve success with Liverpool - something that was fruitful in their Premier League triumph last term.
Despite the arrival of Mamardashvili and the prospect of moving to Saudi Arabia, James has rubbished the idea of the 32-year-old departing Anfield.
Article continues below
He argued: "When does he need to leave?
If you look at the physicality of Alisson, he's young enough to continue playing top-flight football and with that longevity available, there's no need to think about when he could leave, it's what we can win when he's there.
"He's got the world at his feet and the pressure of Mamardashvili to drive him on and make him better.