A Liverpool player who is currently making waves for the first team could have been gone a few months ago if Jurgen Klopp had given in to his demands.
After Caoimhin Kelleher demanded to play for the first team last summer, Jurgen Klopp has hinted that Liverpool may have sold the player.
After usual number one Alisson Becker sustained an injury, the Irish international has excelled for the Reds in recent weeks. Virgil van Dijk praised him as “world-class” after he made a string of incredible saves in the Carabao Cup victory over Chelsea.
Kelleher put on another outstanding display in the FA Cup victory over Southampton at Anfield after that. Klopp seems to have confirmed that discussions on Kelleher’s position at Anfield were held before the current campaign, so it’s possible that the Reds were without him.
Following Wednesday’s victory over the Saints, the German stated: “I have said it before, twice in the past year, and very frequently, outstanding custodian. Rhythm is essential for goalies.
Of course, there was also the summertime scenario. Alisson Becker is Caoimh’s top priority, yet he is a self-assured young man who understands he can play on other teams.
The Carabao Cup and the Europa League games—I’m not sure how many there are—were given to him, and I believe it helped. Afterward, Ali was hurt and had to play, which helped him find his rhythm. Caoimh’s true nature is now apparent.
“I believe it was in the December game against Fulham, where he appeared rather unlucky with the two goals he gave up. After the game, I talked to Ali and the goalkeeping staff. That’s a concern since our ideal goalies should be aggressive and quick to react.
Everyone commented, “He’s not a good goalie,” as he entered the game and Harry Wilson was there with the toe, allowing the ball to pass through his hand. Even the best goalies occasionally make mistakes, and he is one of them.
We were able to win both games because, thank God, he didn’t make one tonight. We should call these games the Caoimh Kelleher games since we would not have won the Carabao Cup or tonight’s matchup without him in that form and Ali hurt. But the goaltender is also responsible for that.”
Reports that Kelleher was willing to move on in the summer are supported by Klopp’s remarks. The custodian would have “jumped” given the chance to leave Liverpool and become a number one, according to a May 2017 story from The Athletic.
Kelleher was linked to Celtic, Nottingham Forest, and Tottenham, among other clubs, but ultimately decided to stay at Liverpool. Despite only recording four clean sheets in his 17 outings, the 25-year-old has been a bright spot for the Reds.