Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp louds the performances of Caoimhin Kelleher in the absence of Alisson Becker
Jurgen Klopp praised Caoimhin Kelleher for stepping up in the absence of the number one keeper at Liverpool, Alisson Becker. Alisson suffered a hamstring injury earlier in February adding to the growing injury crisis at the club.
The Reds beat Chelsea in the Carabao Cup final to secure their first trophy of the season. Kelleher played a crucial role, making world-class saves during the game to keep the Reds on the hunt for victory.
The Irish goalkeeper delivered another fantastic performance in the mid-week FA Cup fifth-round victory over Southampton. Kelleher will feature in every competition until Alisson returns from injury and given the high stakes, his consistency is critical.
Liverpool are at the top of the Premier League table but Manchester City and Arsenal are right behind them. Furthermore, the Reds have successfully progressed in the Europa League and the FA Cup so far.
Speaking at the post-match press conference (h/t Liverpoolfc.com), Klopp highlighted the quality of Kelleher despite being number two to Alisson. He said:
“I love it. Said it before, said it last year, said it two years ago, said it very often actually that he’s an exceptional goalkeeper but goalkeepers need rhythm. There was the situation in the summer obviously. He’s a confident boy, he knows he can play in other teams but there is Alisson Becker, the No.1. We gave him the Europa League games, I think that makes a real different because it was Carabao Cup and the Europa League games, I don’t know exactly how many that [is] – 10, 12 already? Then unfortunately Ali got injured, so he had to play and got the rhythm and now you can see what Caoimh is.”
Kelleher has enjoyed strong support from the Reds staff and fanbase but the inconsistent run of games is an issue. Before the beginning of the season, reports suggested a potential move for Kelleher to play as a first-choice goalkeeper elsewhere.
However, the 25-year-old stayed put during the summer and he has played a pivotal role in this season’s success. Kelleher has made 17 appearances in all competitions this season, keeping four clean sheets and conceding 18 goals.
Save after save after save.
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) February 26, 2024
Take a bow, Caoimhin Kelleher pic.twitter.com/Hjq9gXh4lK
Despite employing squad depth and academy players astutely, Liverpool’s injury crisis severely affects them. Apart from irregular playing time, Kelleher started mostly alongside rotating defenders to protect him, particularly in the Europa League games.
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Nevertheless, the Ireland international has done exceptionally well in recent games after Alisson sustained the injury. Kelleher has a pivotal role to play if Liverpool want to add to the Carabao Cup triumph.
