Ray Clemence praises Liverpool's Simon Mignolet for return to form

Former Liverpool goalkeeper Ray Clemence has expressed his belief that Simon Mignolet "deserves credit" for returning to form following a slump that raised questions over his long-term Anfield future.

The Belgian international was dropped by manager Brendan Rodgers in December, but due to a thigh injury suffered by Brad Jones, Mignolet swiftly returned and has improved in between the sticks.

Since coming back into the first XI, the 26-year-old has kept seven clean sheets and conceded just 10 goals.

In an interview with the Liverpool Echo, Clemence said: "Simon deserves great credit for how he has turned things around. He's making vital saves and helping his team win matches. It just shows what a difference confidence makes. He had a tough time earlier in the season.

"After being left out he had the bonus of coming back into the team earlier than he would have expected after Brad Jones got injured. Since returning to the team he has got better and better."

Liverpool are currently sixth in the Premier League table, two points below fourth-placed Manchester United.