Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has raved about Caoimhin Kelleher on the club’s official website.
The German was very impressed by the performance of Kelleher during Liverpool’s 1-0 win against Ajax in the Champions League on Tuesday evening.
It was the first game for the 22-year-old in Europe’s premier club competition and only his fifth senior appearance for the defending Premier League champions.
The youngster – who played in place of the injured Alisson Becker – has been on the books of Liverpool since 2015 and is rated very highly by Klopp.
Klopp told Liverpool’s official website about Kelleher: “Caoimhin is a sensationally talented goalie. And for goalies it’s really difficult, goalies have to wait.
“They can be exceptional but they have to wait for their chance because there’s only one goalie on the pitch and if this goalie plays for 10 years in a row, it’s pretty difficult. You can be still a wonderful goalie and nobody will see.
“Now he got the chance and I think he convinced everybody. He didn’t have to convince us, obviously – we thought it will be like this. But he convinced everybody, that’s good.”
One for the future
Alisson is one of the best goalkeepers in the world, and there is no doubt that when the Brazil international is fit and available, he starts.
Kelleher’s mature and composed performance between the sticks against Ajax shows his quality, and he could be one for the future.
The fact that the Republic of Ireland Under-21 international started ahead of Adrian against Ajax in midweek underlines the faith that Klopp has in him.
Working with Alisson on a regular basis in training will only help Kelleher get better and develop as a goalkeeper.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
