Caoimhin Kelleher has been the reliable understudy that many sides could only dream of since making his Liverpool debut in 2019. Fortunately, it looks as though he is set to remain at Anfield for at least another season.
In a Premier League Q&A for MailOnline, Lewis Steele shared that the young goalkeeper was unlikely to depart the Reds this campaign. However, there are factors that could lead to a change in circumstances.
“I wouldn’t say zero chance but as it stands Caoimhin Kelleher will not leave this summer,” said Steele.
“The only things that would change that are if Alisson Becker goes to Saudi Arabia – which, as it stands, will not happen, don’t worry Liverpool fans – or if another Premier League club comes in with a good offer promising the Irishman the No 1 shirt.
“He is a quality goalkeeper and does deserve to be playing every week but I think he will stay at Anfield for now. With the Reds being in the Europa League this season, it could be a good chance for Kelleher to get some minutes.
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“But long term, his future could be elsewhere. Gavin Bazunu of Southampton has often been No 1 for Ireland and Kelleher will note that for career progression he might have to seek a move.”
The 24-year-old has made 21 appearances for Liverpool in all competitions, keeping ten clean sheets and establishing himself as a specialist in penalty shootouts.
Jurgen Klopp sang the Irishman’s praises last season as he spared the Red’s blushes in a Carabao Cup victory over third tier Derby County. A young Liverpool lineup were held to a 0-0 draw on home soil, but Kelleher’s heroics in the shootout ensured that Klopp’s men stayed in the competition, and it wasn’t the first time that this script had unfolded.
Klopp on Kelleher
“Tonight they were three really good penalties, they all go in the corner, so it’s not like it’s a bad one and they mishit the ball or slip a little bit before they shoot. No, they were really good and he saved them anyway, so that’s massive,” said the boss.
“I think we never hold it back somehow and said Caoimhin could not play – no, no, no, he is exceptional, he is absolutely exceptional.”
Kelleher is under contract until 2026, so the Reds will not have to worry about losing him on the cheap. As Steele stated, though, for the goalie’s career to continue progressing he will soon have to gain regular first team action and that is unlikely whilst Alisson remains at the club.
He is set to stay put for now, but it will be interesting to monitor his stance over the season.