Unsettled Karius terminates contract

After a tenuous spell at Besiktas, European finalist Loris Karius is set to return to a Liverpool side where he remains an outcast.

Every player dreams of one day making it to the biggest stage of all - the Champions League Final. These were the very hopes realised by goalkeeper Loris Karius as he strode out onto Kiev's Olyimpiskiy in the final fixture of the 2017/18 season.

In a stellar European campaign marred only by a few minor mishaps, the 'keeper was set for the golden gloves after recording an impressive six clean sheets in 13 fixtures. His Liverpool side were the competition's top scorers and, despite the strength of their opponents, Madrid, spectators believed they could go all the way in their quest for a sixth UCL title.

The rest requires little reminder, as Karius' performance would plummet to a potentially career-ending nadir.

A misplaced throw to Karim Benzema preceded a fumbled Gareth Bale effort from distance.

Just like that, two goals down and no coming back. He had gifted Madrid their 13th major European triumph.

These two costly errors horrified fans, players and pundits to such an extent that, over the coming days, the German's face was plastered over every paper, website and sports channel.

With confidence in tatters, a move away was deemed the best solution for all parties involved. And so, just a few short months after his European nightmare, a two-year loan to Turkish side Besiktas was swiftly arranged.

It was surely believed that the former Mainz man's nerves would be restored with a few good performances under his belt. Instead, his stock only fell further.

Each touch was met by jeers and whistles from opposing fans and, on occasion, Besiktas supporters alike.

A series of poor performances only worsened the already toxic situation, even leading to claims, as per the MailOnline, of the club's owners withholding the 'keeper's pay.

Now, with the Turkish Superliga supended, it seems Karius has had enough:

Karius will now return to his parent club where a far from warm reception awaits.

Though it seems unlikely, perhaps he might claim fellow 'keeper Adrian's spot amidst rumours of the veteran's return to his native Spain.

Regardless, Liverpool may have their hand forced and retain their asset's services on Merseyside. After all, they will be hard-pressed to find a new home for a player who's reputation has become so tarnished.