Freddie Woodman is poised to make his first Premier League start in nearly five years when Liverpool face Crystal Palace on Saturday. The 29-year-old goalkeeper joined Anfield as third-choice last summer but will deputise for the injured Giorgi Mamardashvili, who sustained a leg cut in the Merseyside derby.
Woodman replaced the Georgian during the second half of last Sunday's 2-1 win over Everton. ‘It would be unreal, incredible, to get another game in the Premier League and for Liverpool,’ he said. ‘I've watched Mo Salah over the last seven to eight years and to build relationships with these guys … I saw them as superstars, but they're just normal blokes.’
His last top-flight start came for Newcastle United at Old Trafford in a 4-1 defeat. ‘It's a little nerve-racking,’ he admitted. ‘Nerves sort of fuel you to want to do well. If I didn't have them, I would be a little bit worried.’
Woodman grew up supporting Palace and was a ball-boy at Selhurst Park. ‘Did I ever think I'd be playing for Liverpool in the Premier League? Probably not,’ he said. ‘When I'm called upon, I just want to do my best.’ His father, Andy, manages Bromley, who were promoted to League One last weekend.
