Robbie Keane implies 23-year-old Liverpool star could have to leave for more playing time

Robbie Keane talks about the challenge for Liverpool youngster Caoimhin Kelleher

Caoimhin Kelleher, who is currently at Liverpool, may have no choice but to leave the club in the interests of his career, according to ex-Reds striker Robbie Keane (h/t Liverpool Echo).

The 23-year-old who is the second-choice keeper after Alisson at the club has not featured for the Reds this season. As per the club’s official website, he stands unavailable for selection presently. The Irishman joined Liverpool’s youth team aged 17 back in 2015.

Kelleher has played 17 games for the Reds and has managed to keep eight clean sheets. The highlight of his Liverpool career so far has to be the moment wherein he scored Liverpool’s last penalty against Chelsea winning the EFL Cup in 2021.

Being a goalkeeper can be one of the best things and worst things in football simultaneously. Usually, a goalie is the first name on the team-sheet, but if one is a backup keeper, opportunities come rarely.

Kelleher has impressed in all the games he has played for the club, but with Alisson at the helm, it is not easy for Caoimh to break through into the starting XI regularly.

But having said that, the Irishman has gone from strength to strength and has fast-tracked his way to the first team with consistent performances. Robbie Keane also pointed out the same in his interview with Liverpool Echo.

“He’s going to have a problem because he has the best keeper in the world in front of him. He has to make a decision himself on whether to stay or go.”

“I would encourage any player to try and play as many games as you can. He is 23, a good age for a goalkeeper, but only he can answer whether he is happy or wants to leave.”

Keane does not feel that Kelleher will be able to play second fiddle to Alisson for a very long time. The 23-year-old back in June had admitted that he was unsure about his club future in an interview with BBC Sport. Nevertheless, he is too good for the club to let go of in the present scenario.

Alisson being only 29 has a long career ahead of him as a shot-stopper. Kelleher breaking into the starting XI with the Brazilian still around seems like a long shot.

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He could have to leave to develop further but for the club, it would be a blow considering his quality. Adrian San Miguel has shown in the past that he can’t be trusted on a regular basis so let’s hope that Kelleher has the odd start here and there to keep him content for now.