National media raves over Liverpool ace Caoimhin Kelleher in Finland win – ‘Superb’, ‘Outstanding’
Caoimhin Kelleher was dubbed Republic of Ireland’s “best player” after the Liverpool ace excelled in the 1-0 win against Finland.
The 25-year-old is in the form of his life for club and country as he reaffirmed his credentials as the best back-up goalkeeper in the Premier League with a dominant performance on Thursday evening [14 November].
Kelleher was on hand to deny Joel Pahjanpalo from the penalty spot in the final 15 minutes at the Aviva Stadium and ensure Evan Ferguson’s 45th-minute strike secured an unlikely victory in the UEFA Nations League.
Irish broadcaster Raidio Teilifis Eireann [14 November] awarded him a match-high 9/10 rating, writing: “Had little to do in the game until the penalty kick despite Ireland being under a lot of pressure in the first half. Made one save from Kallman which was offside and saw the woodwork hit when he could do nothing to keep the ball out.
“The penalty save was superb and continues his excellent run for Ireland (with the second goal in Greece excluded). Firmly established as Ireland’s number one even when Gavin Bazunu does return. Awarded the player of the match, making four saves in total.”
Whereas Irish website Balls.ie [14 November] felt he deserved a lower 8/10 rating but recognised him as the “best player” for the hosts, writing: “Kelleher is clearly becoming more confident and assured with his short passing game with Ireland. Even though it was called offside, his stop from Kallman at point-blank range just after the half-hour was excellent.
“His penalty save was the moment of the game, with the Ireland fans brought to their feet by his outstanding stop. He did brilliantly to get down low to his right and keep out Pohjanpalo’s spot-kick. Even more impressive was his bravery in getting down to stop the rebound.
“The best player in this Ireland team, Kelleher delivered in outstanding fashion when they needed him on Thursday night.”
Liverpool must grant Caoimhin Kelleher his first team wish
Kelleher has been excellent for Liverpool in Alisson’s absence but with the Brazilian expected to return to the side after the international break, he will be expected to return to the dugout.
The Reds should consider themselves fortunate that a Premier League-level goalkeeper plays second fiddle to arguably the best in the world but he cannot continue to waste his years on Merseyside.
All Liverpool supporters are eternally grateful for Kelleher’s contributions over the years and will undoubtedly wish him a warm-hearted farewell upon his inevitable departure at the end of the campaign.
He has voiced his desire to play regular first team football on several occasions and the impending arrival of Giorgi Mamardashvili will surely mark the end of his Anfield tenure.
Unfortunately, a sooner departure will not be possible despite, Vitezslav Jaros’ availability, given Alisson’s precarious injury record – it is likely the Republic of Ireland international will be called upon once again.
However, his performances for club and country will undoubtedly attract significant interest in the summer transfer window and his future will be, for the first time, his to decide.
A player of his quality needs to play week in and week out to showcase his talents, Liverpool fans should enjoy Kelleher while they still can and appreciate him for the outstanding goalkeeper he has become at Anfield.
In other Liverpool news, Matt Beard issues a warning to his Liverpool Women’s side ahead of the crucial clash against Everton.
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