Dalglish backing for third-choice keeper

LONDON – Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish insists he has no worries about Saturday’s FA Cup semi-final despite having to field third-choice goalkeeper Brad Jones.

Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Andy Carroll was the hero for Liverpool as his late winner secured a 3-2 victory over Blackburn in the Barclays Premier League. Net photo.

LONDON – Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish insists he has no worries about Saturday’s FA Cup semi-final despite having to field third-choice goalkeeper Brad Jones.Jones, 30, made his unexpected Premier League debut for Liverpool, after just two appearances in the Carling Cup and Europa League, after Alexander Doni was sent off in the 3-2 win at Blackburn.The Australia international had a mixed night as he saved Ayegbeni Yakubu’s penalty with his first touch but was then at fault for conceding the spot-kick from which the Nigerian equalised with his second goal of the night.With Doni and Jose Reina suspended for the weekend’s clash against Everton, Jones has suddenly become a pivotal figure having not featured at all under Dalglish, with his last appearance coming in December 2010.‘’We don’t have a problem going in with any players, no problem whatsoever,’’ said the manager. ‘’It was a great first contribution in the Premier League to save a penalty, I am sure he will remember that.’’Dalglish admitted he had "no idea” who would provide back-up to Jones in the FA Cup semi-final with reserve Peter Gulacsi injured while on a season-long loan at Hull City and it may fall on youth team players Danny Ward or Tyrell Belford.Jones added: "The semi-final is not something I have been thinking about to be honest. But it’s a big game and it is about preparing for that and making sure I am focused.”