Andy Lonergan admits he hated facing ‘little magician’ Shaqiri in Liverpool training

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Goalkeeper Andy Lonergan has claimed Xherdan Shaqiri is a nightmare to face in training, branding the Swiss star a ‘little magician’.

The stopper is leaving the club after one term following a decision not to renew his contract, having been brought in as emergency cover at the start of the season.

Lonergan never made an appearance for the Reds in a competitive setting, but earned praise from Jurgen Klopp for his contributions in training and guidance for the keepers.

The 36-year-old may not have featured in any games, but has spoken of his time at Melwood – and reserved high praise for the rarely seen Shaqiri.

He said (Liverpool Echo): “The one I really don’t like facing is Shaqiri. When he’s shooting, he can do whatever he wants with that left foot.

“I’m always thinking when we’re doing five-a-side, ‘Please be on my team,’ because if he’s against you, he’s a little magician with his finishing.’

Despite the comments of Lonergan, Shaqiri spent 2019/20 on the fringes at Anfield, with injury not helping his cause and also the form of Mo Salah and Sadio Mane.

TBR’s View – Shaqiri needs to consider exit

£80,000-a-week star Shaqiri (Spotrac) surely has to consider his future at Liverpool.

He may have had injury problems last term but to have only made seven Premier League appearances is surely disappointing for the player.

Lonergan’s praise suggests he still has fantastic quality, but while Salah and Mane are at the club – both of whom have very good injury records – regular minutes will be difficult to come by.