Giorgi Mamardashvili was called into action after Alisson withdrew due to a hamstring injury in Monday’s training ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League last-16 first leg tie against Galatasaray. It was only his 12th appearance since joining from Valencia last summer and his second since late November.
Mamardashvili quickly adapted, putting in an impressive display at RAMS Park. He made a crucial reaction save from Noah Lang’s cross and denied Davinson Sanchez’s header with a full-length dive, helping limit the deficit to 1-0.
His performance earned praise from Virgil van Dijk following the match. “He did well. To hear the news after training and obviously to completely change his mindset to be ready for a big game like this in the circumstances, last 16, he did well,” said the Liverpool skipper. “That’s the job of any of us – to be ready whenever called upon.”
Mamardashvili made three key saves in the first leg, though Mario Lemina’s first-half header from a corner settled the match. It remains unclear whether the Georgian will start in the second leg or Sunday’s Premier League clash against Tottenham.
Ironically, Alisson’s injury was confirmed just hours after Mamardashvili had spoken about the importance of patience and waiting for his opportunity to play.
“If I don’t play, I don’t mind. I have to work hard every day and that’s it. My time will come for sure. Maybe not this year but my time will come,” the 25-year-old said on the Reds’ Roundtable.
“My ex goalkeeper coach, Jose Manuel Ochotorena, when I was in Valencia, told me I have to find balance between ambition and patience, you know. So keep working hard and you never know when your chance is coming.
“I signed for Liverpool almost two years ago and I had to wait last season until I came here,” he added. “It was a really long one year for me and now I’m happy to be here.”
Mamardashvili has signed a new deal with Uhlsport, continuing his partnership with the sportswear brand. The German sporting goods manufacturer posted on Instagram: “We’re proud to continue our journey with Giorgi Mamardashvili — officially extending our partnership with the Georgian number one.
“One of Europe’s most dominant goalkeepers, trusted at the highest level and a key part of the #uhlsquad. 🌍 Confidence. Trust. Performance. The future stays in safe hands.”
Reacting to the new deal, Mamardashvili also said: “Hi guys, I am really happy to continue my partnership with Uhlsport, and I am looking forward to many more great moments together.”
Want to get the latest Liverpool news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.