Caoimhin Kelleher, stepping in for the sidelined Alisson last week, has hinted at a growing desire to leave Liverpool after seizing his temporary chance between the sticks. Despite knowing his role as a substitute was not permanent, his recent performances have only fuelled his ambition for more regular playtime.
Arne Slot faced his first significant challenge of the season when Alisson was ruled out for two crucial matches against Bournemouth and West Ham. Although the situation could have been worse, it was the first occasion Slot had to rely on a reserve goalkeeper to secure results.
Kelleher has previously shone under Jurgen Klopp's management, earning high praise from the German who dubbed him the 'best No. 2 goalie in the world' back in February 2022.
"Alisson Becker is the best goalie in the world for me," Klopp declared after Liverpool's Carabao Cup Final triumph over Chelsea. "There are other good goalkeepers out there but this goalie is absolutely insane."
"But to be honest for me Caoimhin Kelleher is the best No. 2 goalie in the world as well. "The game he played tonight was absolutely incredible. I can remember at least two incredible saves, and probably there were more.
"So he proved that the decision to line him up was absolutely right. And then in a very spectacular penalty shootout he showed the whole range of his skill set. He finished one off with his really skilled feet. So top class."
"They call it the people's cup, but the whole journey was a squad journey, and that's what I love most about it."
With recent talks of searching for top-flight playing time even if it means leaving Liverpool, many wondered about Kelleher's dedication to the Reds. Nonetheless, in his latest outings, he has impressed with impeccable performances.
Kelleher addressed his label as 'the best second goalkeeper in the Premier League' during a chat with talkSPORT, where he openly discarded this notion.
"It's not a title I want - I want to be playing week in, week out," Kelleher expressed. With Alisson ahead in the selection and Giorgi Mamardashvili expected to arrive from Valencia, his challenge is formidable.
Discussing his current position at Liverpool, he remarked: "At the moment the situation for me is I'll get these opportunities and I need to do well when I get these opportunities and play well, so that is my main focus obviously. Just when I do get that chance, play well."
Ambitious and determined, Kelleher asserts: "It is important I play week in, week out now and get that No.1 position. I have to show everyone I am capable and good enough to play week in, week out. I feel I have the quality to play well when needed, even if that means I'm not playing a game in a few weeks I can come in and still show my quality, so that's the most important part - to be ready when called upon."
