New Republic of Ireland manager has tipped Caoimhin Kelleher to leave Liverpool for regular starting opportunities
Newly-appointed Republic of Ireland head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson has advised Caoimhin Kelleher to leave Liverpool this summer.
Caoimhin Kelleher has spent four seasons as a back-up to No.1 goalkeeper Alisson Becker at Liverpool. He enjoyed his most productive campaign in Liverpool colours last time out, making 26 appearances across all competitions, including 14 successive games. The Irishman deputised extremely well for the injured Alisson and earned a lot of plaudits from fans and pundits alike.
Having got a taste of regular first-team football, the 25-year-old has expressed his desire to become a No.1 earlier in the summer. Thus, it is not surprising to see Kelleher linked with an exit from Anfield as he seeks regular playing time. With Alisson the undisputed first-choice goalkeeper for the Reds, the Republic of Ireland international is unlikely to be entrusted with a starting berth anytime soon.
Whether the talented shot-stopper moves on from Liverpool or not remains to be seen, but Heimir Hallgrimsson has already tipped Kelleher to quit the club to find regular game time.
“Of course [he needs to move], especially when he showed everyone that he can play at the highest level,” Hallgrimsson told Irish Mirror.
“It would be a shame if he’s not playing regularly after he has already shown everyone how good he is, the level he played at.”
Adrian’s departure on a free transfer last month has left new gaffer Arne Slot with just two senior goalkeepers in Alisson and Kelleher. Alisson has been heavily linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League but it is unlikely the Reds sanction his sale this summer. This would see Kelleher continuing as a back-up goalkeeper for another season, which he may not accept after his impressive form last time out.
Kelleher’s confidence should be high heading into the upcoming pre-season tour. The 25-year-old has twice led the Reds to Carabao Cup success, stepping up and proving his worth with minimal trouble whenever called upon. The Liverpool cult hero turns 26 in November and perhaps is at an age where he thinks he should be playing more regularly and showcasing his talent at the highest level. It would also help him to cement his spot as the country’s No.1 under the new manager.
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Having a reliable backup goalkeeper—in the ilk of Kelleher—is an absolute must for any coach. However, having shown in recent years that he is worthy of a regular starting role, Kelleher is right in seemingly angling for a move away from Anfield. Valued at around £25 million, it now remains to be seen which club comes forward and pays that price to sign the Cork-born star this summer.
