Kelleher Comments: No Surprise To Anyone | OneFootball

Caoimhín Kelleher’s Frustrations Are No Surprise – A Number Two Role Won’t Cut It Anymore

It’s a quiet September day, and while Liverpool fans go about their post-transfer window routines, one man’s comments reverberate through the headlines. Caoimhín Kelleher, Liverpool’s dependable second-choice goalkeeper, has once again expressed his desire to step into the spotlight as a number one, and honestly, are we surprised?

Today, the Irish shot-stopper opened up about his ambitions. “Liverpool have rejected a few bids as well. It’s not always in my hands to fully make the decision. My ambition is clear. I’m good enough and I want to go and play week in, week out,” Kelleher told the Irish press. Strong words for a man who’s consistently proven his quality, yet finds himself playing second fiddle to one of the world’s best keepers, Alisson Becker.

Kelleher’s Stellar Performances Speak Volumes

Kelleher’s performance last season was nothing short of brilliant. When called upon, he delivered with aplomb. He clocked 2,400 minutes across 26 appearances in all competitions. With 10 Premier League games, eight Europa League appearances, six in the EFL Cup, and two in the FA Cup, Kelleher showed he has the experience and talent to be a number one. His standout moments weren’t just isolated instances. Game after game, the Irishman showed composure, shot-stopping ability, and a commanding presence. Despite not being a regular starter, Kelleher’s consistent performance in these crucial matches demonstrated his readiness for more.

Photo: IMAGO

Ridiculous Offers Like Forest’s Are Insulting

It’s baffling to think that a talent like Kelleher is still playing backup, but it’s even more surprising when you consider the offers that have come in for him. One notable example is Nottingham Forest’s absurd bid towards the end of the window. As reported by journalist James Pearce, Forest put in a £7 million bid plus Matt Turner, a far cry from what Kelleher’s true market value is. In fact, Forest’s offer was £8 million less than what they had proposed in January.

Such offers are not just an insult to Kelleher’s abilities but also a reflection of the disrespect often shown towards backup goalkeepers. With a market value of £25 million, he’s clearly worth more than what’s been put on the table. Frankly, he’s better than most current Premier League number ones, and it’s only a matter of time before another club realises that.

Clock’s Ticking with Under Two Years on His Contract

With less than two years remaining on his contract, the clock is ticking. Kelleher’s desire to be a number one is clear, and Liverpool may soon be forced to make a decision. It’s surprising that, given his ambitions, he’s still at Anfield. Could it be that the right offer hasn’t come along yet, or is Liverpool holding out for a bigger payday?

Whatever the case may be, Kelleher’s patience is running thin. As he said, “Sometimes from the outside looking in, it looks like maybe that’s 100% my decision, but maybe at times it’s not always in my hands as well.” The desire to play regularly is natural for any ambitious footballer, and Kelleher’s no exception. £25m could be a tough ask now.

What’s Next for Kelleher?

Liverpool may have dodged a bullet by rejecting Forest’s insulting offer, but will they be so lucky come January? A bidding war for a talented goalkeeper who’s ready to take the next step in his career should really be inevitable. Clubs across the league are crying out for quality between the sticks, and Kelleher fits the bill. If Kelleher does move on, there’s little doubt he’ll make an instant impact wherever he goes. His performances over the past season prove that he’s more than ready for a starting role, and his hunger for regular football could see him shine even brighter.

Liverpool’s aren’t reluctant to let him go, but rejecting that Forest bid is understandable; after all, quality backup goalkeepers are hard to find. But for Kelleher, his mind is clearly elsewhere already. Being a number two isn’t enough anymore. As we edge closer to January, the question remains: will Liverpool keep hold of their talented stopper, or will they finally let him spread his wings?