There’s no doubt that Liverpool have looked far more defensively solid in recent weeks.Since the 3-2 defeat to West Brom at the end of January, Jurgen Klopp’s side have conceded just three goals in seven matches.One of the reasons for the team’s improved defensive record is the presence of Virgil van Dijk, who is beginning to produce the talismanic performances that convinced Liverpool to fork out £75 million for his services two months ago.However, it’s surely no coincidence that Liverpool’s results have improved since Klopp decided to drop Simon Mignolet in favour of Loris Karius.Mignolet was benched after the 3-2 defeat at home to West Brom in the FA Cup on January 27 and Karius has retained his place in the starting line-up ever since.Tuesday night’s 0-0 draw against FC Porto was the German’s fourth clean sheet in five matches.It may have been Mignolet’s 30th birthday but Klopp, keen to ensure his players continued their positive momentum ahead of Saturday’s huge Premier League clash against bitter rivals Manchester United, left the Belgian shot-stopper on the bench.

Karius endured a difficult start to his Liverpool career

Karius, 24, has been a figure of fun in English football since arriving at Anfield from Mainz 05 in 2016 because of his unconvincing performances.

Even Liverpool fans have been in agreement for most of this season that they required a top-class keeper this summer in order to seriously challenge for major honours.

Owen Hargreaves makes great point involving Karius

However, former Manchester United and England midfielder Owen Hargreaves made a perfectly reasonable point before the second leg against Porto.

Speaking on BT Sport, Hargreaves said: “Since he's come back into the side, he's made such important saves, the penalty against Tottenham.

“He's come back into the side and he's really earned his place. Big call from Jurgen Klopp taking Mignolet out and you have to credit Karius, he's performed at a very high level. He's very high rated, he was in Germany before he came over. Jurgen Klopp said he's got all the physical traits.

“He's made some big saves in games, to keep Liverpool in games. The question is do they need a number 1? Do they need a new goalkeeper, because he's performed so well.”

Video: Hargreaves on Karius

Watch Hargreaves have his say on Karius here...

It’s a fair question to ask.

While Klopp might be tempted to spend a king’s ransom on AS Roma’s brilliant Brazilian Alisson Becker this summer, keeping faith with Karius might save the club a fortune and still leave the team equipped with a first-class keeper.

Liverpool fans: should Loris Karius be your number one next season? Have your say by leaving a comment below.