Gary Lineker has praised Liverpool after winning the Carabao Cup and questioned Chelsea’s decision to change goalkeepers for the penalty shootout.
The Reds played out an end-to-end 0-0 with Chelsea before eventually winning the trophy 11-10 on penalties, with goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga the only player to miss from the spot.
The 27-year-old replaced Edouard Mendy in the final minute of extra time, having already helped Thomas Tuchel’s side to shootout wins over both Villarreal and Aston Villa this season.
However, the Match of the Day presenter admitted he was less certain about Chelsea ’s decision when discussing the final on Twitter.
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“That must be a first. Bring on a keeper for a penalty shootout and the only player out of 22 to miss is that substitute keeper, Kepa,” Lineker said.
Before Arrizabalaga missed the decisive penalty, the ex-England striker joked, “I’d bring Mendy on now”, having praised the Senegal international several times throughout the match.
Aside from Tuchel’s controversial decision, Lineker gave Jurgen Klopp’s side credit for lifting the trophy: “Congratulations to @lfc on winning the Carabao cup. Cracking game, 2 top sides, belting penalty shootout.”
The 61-year-old also gave plaudits to Trent Alexander-Arnold’s passing ability during the game and described the Reds’ recent arrival Luis Diaz as "sharp" and a “real talent”.
