Former Premier League striker Noel Whelan has tipped Caoimhin Kelleher to save Liverpool ‘millions’ in the transfer market.
The 23-year-old was in outstanding form as the Reds lifted the Carabao Cup following victory over Chelsea on penalties.
Following the match, in which the young stopper netted his own spot-kick, Jurgen Klopp hailed Kelleher as the ‘best number-two goalie in the world’.
Speaking to Football Insider, Whelan all but echoed those sentiments and suggested that the Republic of Ireland international will save the club a fortune.
It’ll give him and his career such a boost. Just look at the fact that Kepa had played every game up until the final but Edouard Mendy stepped in anyway. Klopp trusted him to do the job, and that’s the biggest compliment you can get. He had a brilliant game and made some great saves. He’s definitely the one for the future and a player who will be pushing for that top spot – if not at Liverpool then definitely somewhere else. It’s great when you have two goalkeepers that can be trusted and have great attributes. Even his distribution was superb, he never looked under pressure. It’s good for Liverpool to know that they don’t need to go out and spend millions on a number two because he’s right there – and he’s shown that he’s more than capable.
Kelleher earned an outstanding 8.50 Sofascore rating for a display against Chelsea containing four saves, one punch and 29 successful passes.
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Absolutely spot on.
Kelleher, a twice-capped senior Ireland star, has been superb whenever called upon by Klopp and the German is all too aware of the quality available from the bench in the goalkeeper department.
In fact, the challenge for the club is keeping hold of the £2.25million valued ace whilst Alisson – arguably the best in the world – is on Merseyside.
With an FA Cup tie against Norwich City up next, it’s likely the Irishman will add to his eight appearances so far this season.
