I'm pretty sure this guy is better than Bogdan, even at 39. And we're starting to get a few guys from Augsburg which is getting funny right now.
Coming in on a free transfer, Manninger stands at 6'2 and a half, just barely taller than Karius. This makes him the second shortest goalkeeper, behind 6'4 Mignolet and 6'3 Ward and Fulton. I wouldn't consider the shortness a problem as he does the same thing that Karius does (getting "bigger in goal") when a problem of height comes in.
There's no potential here, just cover. He's only signed a one year contract, as cover for Mignolet and Karius should they be suspended or injured for whatever reason. Still, this does not mean that he won't be good. He plays in a way that is similar to Karius, in that he'll hover near the top of his box and receive passes to contribute to the pressing and attack of our team. But, he still would rather catch, wait and save than Karius' kicking and tackling. He's both an old school keeper and a modern one as well, but the former tends to show more often.
What to expect is not very much. If we have a good season, we should honestly never see him. And that's in a nice way. He's here as cover and if he does have to be in goal it means that the injuries have made their rounds.
His transition period shouldn't be long as he used to play for Arsenal, you know, the unbeaten season that they had. Though he did only play about ten or so matches, he still got PL time and understands the PL. He might not be quite as athletic as before, but the knowledge is still there.
For a free transfer, this is simple and easy to say yes to for both parties. And though him getting play time is unexpected, he has experience in the league that will be valuable when he may get the unexpected chance to wear green this season.
Say what you think about the new veteran Alex down below!
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Anfield Until The End 16/17
RandomA bit overdue but this is about Liverpool and our new and old players, our cool manager, preseasons, transfer windows, new matches, transfer rumours and anything having to do with the Liverbird, the Redmen and the BPL.
