Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp admits Caoimhin Kelleher was close to a departure in the summer

Jurgen Klopp has hinted that Liverpool entertained the possibility of selling the talented Caoimhin Kelleher last summer due to his desire for regular first-team action.

The Irish goalkeeper has recently emerged as a standout performer for the Reds, stepping up admirably in the absence of regular starter Alisson Becker. Kelleher’s heroics between the posts, particularly highlighted in the Carabao Cup triumph against Chelsea, where he produced a string of exceptional saves, have earned him widespread acclaim, with Virgil van Dijk even dubbing him “world-class.”

Following up on his stellar performance, Kelleher once again demonstrated his quality in Liverpool’s FA Cup victory over Southampton at Anfield. However, it appears that Liverpool could have faced a different scenario had talks not unfolded regarding Kelleher’s role at the club before the current campaign began.

Addressing the situation after the win against Southampton, Klopp shed light on the discussions that took place, indicating the club’s recognition of Kelleher’s talent and ambition. Here is what the manager had to say about the situation in the summer via Mirror:

“[I] said it before, said it last year, said it two years ago, said it very often actually, exceptional goalkeeper. Goalkeepers need rhythm.”

“There was the situation in the summer obviously. Caoimh knows, he is a confident boy, he knows he can play in other teams but he has Alisson Becker as the No.1.”

“We gave him the Europa League games and I think that made a real difference because it was the Carabao Cup and the Europa League games, I don’t know how many there are, and then unfortunately Ali got injured and he had to play, and got the rhythm. Now we can see what Caoimh is.”

Caoimh for the Reds!

He elaborated on the circumstances surrounding Kelleher’s potential departure, acknowledging the Irish goalkeeper’s confidence and awareness of his abilities, as well as the presence of Alisson Becker as the established number-one choice. Klopp noted the importance of providing Kelleher with playing opportunities, which initially came in the form of Europa League matches and the Carabao Cup.

The Europa League fixtures against Union St.Gilloise afforded Kelleher the chance to showcase his skills, contributing significantly to his development and readiness to step up when called upon. However, unforeseen circumstances, such as Alisson’s injury, ultimately thrust Kelleher into the spotlight, allowing him to seize the moment and demonstrate his capabilities on a larger stage.

Klopp’s reflections underscore the value of providing opportunities for emerging talents like Kelleher to grow and flourish within the team, even amidst the complexities of squad management and competition for positions. Kelleher’s rise serves as a testament to Liverpool’s commitment to nurturing young talent and ensuring that every player is given the chance to realise their potential.

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Looking ahead, Kelleher’s contributions will be crucial for Liverpool as they navigate through the remainder of the season and beyond. His emergence as a reliable option in goal provides the team with added depth and flexibility, ensuring that they remain competitive across all competitions after already winning one