Imminent Liverpool signing Andy Lonergan nearly joined Everton in 2011

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Liverpool are set to sign goalkeeper Andy Lonergan on a short-term deal, the club’s official website confirmed. But Lonergan could have been an Everton player in the past.

According to The Liverpool Echo, Lonergan turned down the chance to move to Everton in 2011. Instead, he joined Leeds United but eight years, later he is finally moving to Merseyside.

Lonergan explained that Leeds was the better option for his career. With quotes via The Echo, Lonergan said: “I had the opportunity to join Everton or Leeds. I thought for my career it would be best to join Leeds.”

The former England youth stopper suggested that he would get more game time in the Championship. And now he is finally set to complete a move to the Premier League.

Lonergan has been training with Liverpool in pre-season due to a shortage of goalkeepers. Simon Mignolet joined Club Brugge, Kamil Grabara is on loan at Huddersfield Town and Caoimhin Kelleher is injured.

Then, on the opening day of the season, Alisson suffered an injury, which is due to keep him out of action for a few weeks. Adrian – the summer arrival from West Ham – assumed Alisson’s spot between the sticks but the Reds need a back-up goalkeeper in case the Spaniard also gets injured.

TBR’s view

This is where Lonergan comes into the equation. It is a win-win situation for everyone involved. Liverpool get a short-term back-up goalkeeper (and one with plenty of experience) and Lonergan gets to play for a major European club and potentially fulfil his dream of playing Premier League football.

Before Alisson returns from injury, Lonergan might be given some cup games. From back-up goalkeeper at Middlesbrough to covering at Liverpool, the 35-year-old’s career could end in style.