Caoimhin Kelleher: Liverpool’s Future No.1 as Alisson Faces Tough Challenge | OneFootball

Caoimhin Kelleher’s Growing Influence at Liverpool: A Future Star in the Making

Caoimhin Kelleher has long been a trusted understudy to Liverpool’s star goalkeeper, Alisson, but his performances in recent seasons suggest that the Irishman may soon be ready to step into a more prominent role. His growing influence, both in the Premier League and Champions League, has prompted comparisons with some of the best goalkeepers in the world, with former footballers Kevin Doyle and Tony Cascarino both tipping him for a bright future at the top of the game.

Kelleher, who graduated from Liverpool’s academy, has had a relatively limited amount of senior appearances, with just 55 senior games to his name since the 2019/20 season. However, this season, with Alisson sidelined through injury, Kelleher has seized the opportunity to impress, making eight appearances, including five starts in the Premier League and two in Europe. Notably, he has yet to concede in the Champions League this term, highlighting his ability to perform on the biggest stage.

Kelleher’s Potential to Become One of the World’s Best

Kevin Doyle, a former Ireland international, believes that Kelleher has the potential to be one of the world’s best goalkeepers in the coming years. Doyle’s comments reflect the growing recognition of Kelleher’s talent, with the 24-year-old showing maturity and consistency when called upon by Liverpool.

“I think in five or six years he is going to be in the top one or two goalkeepers in the world,” Doyle said during an interview with RTE. “He’s that good at everything he does. He has got everything in the locker. He ticks every box. If he can get himself playing, I feel he’s going to be the top man.”

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Doyle’s words underscore Kelleher’s all-round capabilities, from his shot-stopping ability to his composure on the ball. With time and consistent playing opportunities, Doyle feels Kelleher is destined to take his place among the elite goalkeepers in world football.

Tony Cascarino’s Bold Claim on Kelleher’s Future at Liverpool

Tony Cascarino, the former Premier League forward, also has high praise for Kelleher and believes the goalkeeper’s performances this season warrant a more prominent role at Liverpool, even when Alisson returns to full fitness.

“They need to make Kelleher the No.1, I’d hate to see him go,” Cascarino stated on talkSPORT. “Alisson’s had injuries over the last few years, he’s a fantastic goalkeeper but what I’ve seen from Kelleher this season, how he’s grown, his ability on the ball, much bigger confidence than he had 18 months ago.”

Cascarino’s view is that Kelleher’s rise has been nothing short of sensational. The Irish goalkeeper has shown increased confidence and an ability to command the ball with much more authority than before. “He’s now become Ireland’s most important player,” Cascarino added. “Kelleher’s moved up pretty quickly. In some ways, Arne Slot may look at Kelleher and think – he is the future.”

Cascarino doesn’t hold back in his assessment, arguing that Liverpool would be unwise to let Kelleher go. “I’m not sure he’ll drop Kelleher when Alisson’s fit,” he said. “I’m not convinced by that at all, he’s been sensational for Liverpool. I think he’s earned the right to stay in the team, and Alisson’s going to have to dislodge him.”

Kelleher’s Determination and the Decision Ahead for Liverpool

Kelleher has been vocal about his desire for more consistent first-team action. Having stepped in when needed, he feels that he has proven his worth to Liverpool and is ready to take on a starting role, particularly if he continues to perform at such a high level. With Alisson’s return on the horizon, Liverpool face a big decision over who will occupy the number one spot between the sticks.

Photo: IMAGO

Kelleher’s excellent form this season may be hard to ignore, especially given his record in Europe and the growing belief in his potential. Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp will have a delicate choice to make once Alisson is fully fit, with Kelleher’s performances leaving him deserving of a regular starting spot.

Should Kelleher continue to be overlooked, he could soon seek a move in search of guaranteed first-team football. The interest in his abilities will undoubtedly grow if he is not afforded the chance to prove himself on a more consistent basis at Liverpool.

Kevin Doyle’s Insight on Kelleher’s Development

Kevin Doyle’s assessment of Kelleher’s future underscores the significant growth he has shown since his breakthrough at Liverpool. Doyle’s faith in his compatriot reflects the growing consensus that Kelleher is not just a promising talent, but a goalkeeper with the ability to be a key player for both Liverpool and the Republic of Ireland in the years to come.

For now, Kelleher’s focus will remain on securing his place at Liverpool, and with his performances this season, it’s clear that he has the potential to become one of the best in the world. Whether that journey continues at Liverpool or elsewhere will depend on the decisions made in the coming months.