Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker has delivered an insight into modern-day goalkeeping, explaining what today’s football demands of him and his peers.
It’s been an impressive calendar year for the Brazil international, as he has 13 Premier League clean sheets under his belt – more than any other shot-stopper in the division in this timeframe.
Alisson’s fabulous stop to deny Miguel Almiron’s half-volley in a come-from-behind 2-1 triumph over Newcastle United earned him the league’s Save of the Month award for August.
The 31-year-old was in contention for the same prize in September for his diving save to thwart Heung-min Son in a late 2-1 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur, showcasing his stunning reflexes again.
However, making saves and claiming crosses are not the only things defining modern-day goalkeepers, considering the game has evolved to a new level.
Keepers are now more involved in build-up plays, with technical prowess, ability to read the game and calmness on the ball requiring them to match their outfield teammates’ skills.
Like many of his colleagues, the Liverpool star has had to adapt to the new requirements.
“I think you see goalkeepers playing more with their feet from the back, and you see teams playing more with their feet from the back, not only kicking long balls,” Alisson told the club’s official website.
“That affects our position a little bit, but I don’t think it changed too much. We just improved things because of the necessity of what football is asking for.
“Football today is asking for a team that builds up.
“The goalkeeper needs to play, to be good with his feet, but the main part is making saves and doing what a goalkeeper does – leading the team, claiming crosses.
“So I think playing with your feet is more an extra thing than the main thing for a goalkeeper.”
Alisson has made nine starts for Liverpool in the Premier League this season, making just two clean sheets while conceding one goal per game on average.
One of those two shutouts came in last weekend’s 2-0 home win over Merseyside rivals Everton, although the Reds’ dominance in that fixture made it easy for him as he only had to pull off one comfortable save.
