Jurgen Klopp is ready to give Danny Ward an opportunity to prove he can become Liverpool's first-choice goalkeeper.

Klopp has been hugely impressed with Ward since the squad reconvened for pre-season training at the start of the month.

And with Loris Karius continuing to struggle in the wake of his Champions League final nightmare, Ward is now poised to be given an extended chance during pre-season.

Reds boss Klopp has been impressed with the attitude of the 25-year-old Wales international, who is understood to have raised his levels at Melwood in recent weeks.

Now Ward could have forced his way into the box seat between the sticks as the countdown continues to the start of the Premier League season.

Karius has been under intense scrutiny since his two errors during the Champions League final defeat to Real Madrid in May, with it later emerging he had suffered concussion during the game.

The German appeared nervous during Liverpool's opening pre-season friendly at Chester City last weekend, and was responsible for a poor error in conceding a goal in the 3-2 win at Tranmere Rovers on Tuesday.

Danny Ward during the pre-season friendly match between Tranmere Rovers and Liverpool
Danny Ward during the pre-season friendly match between Tranmere Rovers and Liverpool

By comparison, Ward was a steady influence during his 45-minute appearances in both games, and is now poised to be given increased game time over the coming weeks.

Liverpool continue their preparations at Bury on Saturday before a trip to Blackburn Rovers the following Thursday.

The Reds then fly out for their tour of the United States where they will face Borussia Dortmund, Manchester City and Manchester United.

With Simon Mignolet unavailable due to World Cup commitments with Belgium, Ward and Karius are the only two senior goalkeepers expected to travel.

Ward made just one appearance for Liverpool last season having spent the previous campaign on loan at Huddersfield Town, who he helped guide to promotion to the Premier League.

Klopp is still considering his goalkeeping options with Mignolet touted for a departure before the transfer window closes next month.