The highly-rated goalkeeper is having to be patient in pursuit of regular outings for the Reds, but his potential has been tied down
Caoimhin Kelleher has signed a new long-term contract at Liverpool, with the 22-year-old goalkeeper seeing his impressive progress at senior level rewarded.
The promising shot-stopper has become a full international with the Republic of Ireland, while also gracing Premier League and Champions League fixtures at club level.
His path to regular first-team football at Anfield is blocked by Brazil star Alisson, but the Reds are eager to ensure that they remain the ones to benefit from his long-term potential.
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What has been said?
Kelleher has told Liverpool’s official website of committing to fresh terms: “I am happy to get it over the line and finally done; it was in the pipeline for a few months with negotiations and stuff, so I am delighted to get it done.
“For me, it was a positive moment to commit my future to the club for the next few years.
“It’s such a big club and it’s an honour to be a part of it, so when I got the chance to sign for a few more years I was obviously delighted.
“I just want to keep my progress going at the club, really.”
🔴 Caoimhin Kelleher has signed a new long-term contract with the Reds! 🙌
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) June 24, 2021
What does the future hold?
Kelleher has seen a loan move mooted for 2021-22, as experienced back-up keeper Adrian has also committed to a new 12-month deal, but it is more likely he will be the club’s main deputy for Alisson.
He spent more time on the treatment table last season than he would have liked, but Champions League and Premier League debuts were taken in – with clean sheets picked up on both of those outings.
“It was a big year for me in terms of playing the first-team games this year and more important games; being thrown into the Champions League and Premier League games was big for my development and being able to handle that,” he added.
“It gave me a lot of confidence to try to push on, to try to keep pushing Ali because I can play at that kind of level as well and do well.
“I am looking forward, try to keep pushing him and we’ll see what happens.”
Further reading
- Ballon d’Or or bin man – What’s next for Nat Phillips?
- ‘Tielemans would suit the way that Liverpool play’
- Suarez can’t see ‘strange’ Premier League return happening
