Mignolet: Why I didn't take the No.1 jersey
Simon Mignolet has explained why he turned down the opportunity to take on Liverpool’s No.1 jersey this summer.
The goalkeeper had the opportunity to inherit the number following the departure of Brad Jones from the club – but elected to stick with his favoured No.22.
Mignolet told Liverpoolfc.com: “Although I was offered the No.1, 22 is my number.
“I’ve always worn it ever since I started playing professional football – I started with that number back in Belgium, I wore it at Sunderland and I started my career here at Liverpool with it, so I didn’t want to change it.
“I wouldn’t say I was superstitious, but it’s something that is part of me. When you feel comfortable and it’s something good, why would you change it?”
On a personal level, it’s been a satisfying year so far for Mignolet.
A record that boasts more clean sheets than any other Barclays Premier League goalkeeper in 2015, a flawless start to the new season and getting married to partner, Jasmine, in June are among the highlights.
Mignolet said: “I am happy personally with how things are going, both on and off the pitch, in 2015 - the way I responded after my short period on the bench, coming back and keeping those clean sheets, winning the Player of the Year award from the LFC Legends, getting married and having a good start to this season.
“We’re only halfway through 2015, so let’s keep it going until the end and hopefully we can continue in the same way in 2016 as well.”
Should Mignolet help Liverpool achieve a fourth consecutive clean sheet against West Ham United on Saturday, he’ll equal the club record for most shut outs at the start of a campaign.
“Let’s hope we can do that,” said the Belgian custodian. “There are still 90 minutes to be played and it’s not going to be an easy game against West Ham, they’re always a tough opponent.
“We have to make sure we keep the same performance level we have done so far this season and I’m sure we can.”
Mignolet added: “We’re very happy with how things are going. We won our first two games and then when you go away to Arsenal at the Emirates, to keep another clean sheet and get a point, you’re pleased.
“There’s still one game before the international break at home against West Ham, so if we can win that we can speak of a good start to the season.”