Caoimhin Kelleher Eyes First-Team Football Beyond Liverpool | OneFootball

Caoimhin Kelleher: The Next Step in His Career

Caoimhin Kelleher, the talented Irish goalkeeper, has found himself at a career crossroads. After years of serving as Alisson Becker’s understudy at Liverpool, the 25-year-old is now considering a move to find regular first-team football. As reported by Mark Pirie in the Daily Record, Kelleher has been candid about his aspirations, admitting he would consider opportunities outside the Premier League this summer.

Klopp’s Encouragement

Jurgen Klopp, the former Liverpool manager, has been a significant influence on Kelleher’s career. The goalkeeper revealed that Klopp had some encouraging words for him before his departure from Anfield. “He had some nice words for me. I was with him for a number of years and he said ‘You became a brilliant goalkeeper in that time.’ He is going to follow my career wherever I go. He wants to see me playing and to be happy,” Kelleher shared.

Kelleher’s loyalty to Liverpool and his respect for Klopp are evident, but his desire for consistent playing time is a priority. “The season I’ve had, I’ve played a lot of games and had that taste this season of being a number one. Whether that’s at Liverpool or elsewhere, that remains to be seen. My main focus at the moment is to be number one.”

The Celtic Connection

With Joe Hart set to retire at the end of the campaign, Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers is on the lookout for a new No. 1, and Kelleher has been consistently linked with a move to the Scottish champions. The prospect of joining Celtic is intriguing, especially considering Rodgers’ history with the player. Having acted as Alisson’s deputy in recent seasons, Kelleher has shown he has the skills and temperament to succeed at a high level.

Kelleher’s openness to a move was further highlighted when he spoke before Ireland’s friendly clash with Hungary. “Obviously I don’t know what is happening yet with Liverpool, but I am open to all options. Obviously if I do move everything has to be right. It has to be right for myself, and that could be in England or abroad. I have to make the right decision and it has to be a good fit for myself most importantly.”

Ambitions for Ireland

Beyond club football, Kelleher has significant ambitions for his international career. “Obviously I love playing for Ireland. A big ambition of mine is to be the number one here – obviously that only comes hand in hand when I’m number one at the club as well. That plays a major part as well, in terms of helping my case to be Ireland number one.”

This dual aspiration to be a regular starter both for his club and country underscores Kelleher’s drive and determination. His journey from Liverpool’s academy to the first team, nurtured by Klopp, has been impressive, but the next step is crucial. Regular game time is essential for his development and to solidify his position as Ireland’s top goalkeeper.

Weighing the Options

As Kelleher contemplates his future, several factors will influence his decision. The club’s vision, the opportunity to play regularly, and the environment will all play critical roles. Celtic offers a compelling proposition, with the chance to be the first-choice keeper in a team competing for titles and playing in Europe.

However, Kelleher remains pragmatic and open to various possibilities. His statement, “Whether that’s at Liverpool or elsewhere, that remains to be seen. My main focus at the moment is to be number one,” reflects a mature approach to his career.

In conclusion, Caoimhin Kelleher’s potential move could be a significant development in his career. With encouragement from Klopp and the allure of regular first-team football, the young goalkeeper is poised for an exciting next chapter, whether it unfolds at Celtic or elsewhere. The football world will be watching keenly to see where Kelleher’s journey takes him next.