Kelleher claim made by pundit ahead of Liverpool class as multiple big names ruled out
Noel Whelan has insisted Caoimhin Kelleher is “good enough” to fill Alisson’s gloves when Liverpool face Watford on Saturday.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Leeds striker claimed the 22-year-old goalkeeper is the “next best thing” at Anfield.
A Liverpool source told Football Insider on Thursday (14th October) that Kelleher is in line to start against the Hornets in place of Alisson.
Jurgen Klopp confirmed on Friday both Alisson and Fabinho would miss out after their international exploits.
The duo were both in the matchday squad for Brazil’s win over Uruguay, which took place in the early hours of Friday morning.
Kelleher has been on the bench for every Premier League game this season, having leapfrogged Adrian in the Anfield pecking order.
Whelan suggested the level of opposition may have made Klopp’s decision not to rush Alisson back easier.
Whelan told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “I think if it was a Man City or a Chelsea they were playing, it would be more detrimental. No disrespect to Watford.
“They’ve got a new manager in Ranieri, he’s only had a short amount of time with the players. They are off the back of a defeat and they’re at home.
“There’s a lot of pressure on the Watford players right now after that defeat.
“I think Kelleher’s good enough, I really do. I think he’s the next best thing behind Alisson they have at the football club. They trust him.
“He’s a young player coming through so you also know they’ve got to protect him.
“Every defender that’s out there on the day has got to do their job very well to help this young goalkeeper as well.”
Kelleher has made two Premier League appearances to date, the same number he has played for the Republic of Ireland national team.
In other news, Kieran Maguire has told Liverpool to seal “brilliant” £36.2m deal after Salah update.