29 May 2024 , 08:02
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Caoimhin Kelleher has hinted that he could leave Liverpool this summer, as he bids to become first-choice goalkeer to progress his career.
The 25-year-old has been Alisson Becker's understudy for the past four seasons but enjoyed a longer stint in goal when the Brazilian was injured this term. Kelleher performed well to help the Reds win the Carabao Cup and built his reputation across 26 appearances.
The Republic of Ireland international acknowledged earning increased playing time at Anfield would prove difficult. Kelleher competes for minutes with a goalkeeper he considers the best in the world in recent years.
As a result, the prospect of leaving the club appears to have crossed his mind. Kelleher wants to start every week, he believes that should be the next step in his career.
“It would be great if that happened at Liverpool, but I’m not silly," he told the Athletic. "I know that Ali has been the best goalkeeper in the world for years.
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“I’ve had such an amazing time at Liverpool. It’s been a crazy journey for me and one that I’ve absolutely loved. I love the club, I love the fans and I have a great relationship with the players and the staff. Whether it’s here at Liverpool or somewhere else, I do feel the next step for me is to be a No 1.”
Kelleher has already drawn interest ahead of this summer with the likes of Celtic linked to making a move, while the winter transfer window saw Liverpool reject a bid from Nottingham Forest. Jurgen Klopp intervened 12 months ago to ensure that Kelleher remained at his disposal for 2023/24, but discussions are set to take place once again.
Caoimhin Kelleher has been linked with a summer move away from Liverpool (Getty Images)"I wouldn’t say I was pushing (to leave) last summer but saying, ‘Look, I need to kick on for my career’," explained the shotstopper, "Jurgen said, ‘If anything happens to Ali, we really need you to be there’. It worked out for the best this season because I played 26 games.
"There will be some discussions over the coming weeks. The club was busy with the manager leaving and appointing a new one. With all the new staff arriving, those talks will happen."
Kelleher started more games in 2023/24 than the rest of his career combined. That he was able to feature in consecutive matches ensured a different experience for the ace, and it whet his appetite.
“It was the first time in my career that I’d had a spell like that and I loved it," he said. "I thrived on it. I’d been waiting for a moment like that. It was a massive opportunity for me to be Liverpool’s No 1 for that long.
“It was my time to show the level I believe I can perform at and the level people at the club think I’m able to play at. I proved that I’m good enough to play in the Premier League — I’m comfortable there. I’ve always had that belief in myself. Proving it to people was satisfying.”
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