There is speculation in the Turkish media that Loris Karius could be dropped by Besiktas.

A report emerged in Fotomac - the country's most popular sports newspaper - claiming that manager Senol Gunes was preparing to bench him for the upcoming Europa League tie with Genk.

The news arrived after Karius made headlines before the international break for a disastrous mistake in a game with Malmo, which saw him inexplicably concede a cross.

It was such a shame to see for football fans, especially considering Karius had looked to turn things around in Turkey by making a strong start at Besiktas.

Videos emerged of the 25-year-old making a series of brilliant saves and his performance against Fenerbahce received wide-spread praise.

Rumours of Karius being dropped

Liverpool supporters in particular have been keeping an eye on Karius with the goalkeeper on a two-year loan away from Anfield.

Jurgen Klopp was ready to give Karius another chance on Merseyside this season, but some poor showings in pre-season encouraged the purchase of Alisson Becker.

Nevertheless, there's an understanding that Karius could become one of the finest goalkeepers in Europe yet there are questions over his mentality after the Champions League final disaster.

Harsh comment from Germany

So, it was understandably worrying when the reason for the Besiktas rumours were the pressure he was feeling after the Malmo mistake.

The Fotomac report that Gunes is keen to protect Karius from the backlash, a suggestion reiterated by the Liverpool Echo on Thursday.

Not only that, but they have highlighted a particular piece of criticism that seems to be key to the speculation surrounding Karius and it comes from his native Germany.

Former Germany goalkeeper Uli Stein recently remarked: "Karius seems to think that it is more important to take photos and share on social media accounts than on the field.

"He needs two perfect seasons to prove himself again."

It's not the first time that Karius has been criticised for his social media activity and it seems this high profile comment has influence the supposed pressure on him in Turkey.

Only time will tell whether Fotomac are correct and the backlash like that of Stein has really resulted in Karius dropping to the Besiktas bench.

One thing that is for sure, though, is that the pressure is being ramped on Karius over in Turkey.

Liverpool fans had hoped that his loan deal would encourage a return to form by removing him from the limelight, but the first two months have proven more tumultuous than expected.

They'll have to keep their fingers crossed that Stein's comment hasn't consigned Karius to the bench.

Do you think Karius should be dropped at Besiktas? Have your say in the comments section below.