Liverpool are certainly in a strong position across all competitions right now, Arne Slot probably couldn’t have wished for a much better start.
Liverpool didn’t improve their squad in the summer in terms of players being bought, but Slot has revived the fortunes of a few key men.
No one has improved more than Ryan Gravenberch as Liverpool’s number six, which is particularly pertinent given the club’s failed attempts to sign Martin Zubimendi.
That being said, in terms of excellent performers under Slot, Caoimhin Kelleher deserves a mention too, who rarely ever puts a foot or glove wrong for Liverpool.
And after Alisson Becker’s recent injury, Kelleher has once again been handed an opportunity to impress, one he’s taking.
Steve McManaman says it’s ‘disrespectful’ to call Caoimhin Kelleher a number two
Kelleher was superb for Liverpool in their 1-0 win away at RB Leipzig in the Champions League, a level of performance he’ll hope to take to north London on Sunday.
Alongside Rio Ferdinand, Steve McManaman led the compliments for Kelleher after the game speaking on TNT Sports.
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McManaman said it was ‘disrespectful’ to call the Irishman a number two now given how strongly he’s always performed
McManaman said: “It’s almost disrespectful saying he’s a number two, because of course, he does play second in command when fit to Alisson.
“But he’s played too many games now to sort of be associated with that, he’s an outstanding goalkeeper, outstanding when called upon.”
Ferdinand added: “I think you have to have a level of humility to be able to go, you know what, I am this guy and I’m going to sit in the background for the majority of the time [and] when called upon I’ve got the confidence to come in and perform.
“That means that your training has to be on point all the time, concentrate, make sure you keep sharpening all of your tools while you’re not in the spotlight, and when that time comes, you’re ready to rock and roll.”
Caoimhin Kelleher is right to speak publicly about his future
Of course, it’s widely believed that Kelleher wants to leave Liverpool in the near future, a completely understandable decision.
To his credit, the Republic of Ireland international has spoken very candidly about his position, a refreshing stance.
It’s clear that Kelleher understands Liverpool’s predicament too, hence why he’d prefer a new challenge at 25-years-old.
Perhaps Giorgi Mamardashvili could be loaned again next season once he arrives permanently, but that is unlikely to influence Kelleher’s decision, who is done being a number two let alone dropping to third choice.