Klopp explains why ‘whole package’ Mignolet was given new deal

Jurgen Klopp: Has total confidence in Simon Mignolet

Jurgen Klopp: Has total confidence in Simon Mignolet

Jurgen Klopp has defended Liverpool’s decision to hand Simon Mignolet a new deal – saying he gives the team a “good feeling” when he plays.

Mignolet was handed a new long-term deal to keep him at Anfield until 2021 on Monday – and Klopp insists he has total belief in the Belgian.

Simon Mignolet: Picture courtesy of Liverpool FC

The former Sunderland star has come in for plenty of criticism this season, but he’s always retained Klopp’s backing – and the German insists the player is good enough to get even better.

Speaking at his press conference on Tuesday to preview Wednesday’s FA Cup third-round replay against Exeter, Klopp said: “We would not have had offered him a new contract if we had the same thinking (as his critics).

“It’s normal for Simon to be involved in one or two goals conceded, but the package is perfect. He is young enough to develop and gives the whole team a good feeling when he’s in the starting line-up.”

The Reds were linked with a move for QPR stopper Rob Green on Tuesday, but while Klopp didn’t comment on that link directly, he did insist he has no desire to sign a new stopper.

“People are talking about new goalkeepers, especially from Germany, but I have heard nothing bad about Simon here.”