Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has defended under-fire goalkeeper Loris Karius and advised him to 'shut his ears' to the criticism.

The 23-year-old made a number of mistakes during last weekend's 4-3 defeat to Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium.

Karius, who has replaced Simon Mignolet as first-choice keeper, let in the Cherries' winner after fumbling Steve Cook's shot, which allowed Nathan Ake to slot the ball home.

Ahead of Sunday's clash against West Ham United, Klopp has given his backing to Karius, and referred to a recent blunder made by Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea, who is regarded as one of the world's best.

"We analysed the game. I found eight players who could have defended the goal before Loris was involved," Klopp told reporters in Friday's press conference.

"He made a mistake too which David de Gea made a few days before. Even the best goalkeepers in the world still make mistakes.

"There is no perfect recipe for development but shut your ears or close your ears helps a lot. I'm quite good at that. Hopefully, he can adapt to my skills to this."

The Reds are currently third in the Premier League table, four points adrift of leaders Chelsea.