Carabao Cup final performance proof Kelleher needs to LEAVE Liverpool

Cameron Smith

• 25 Feb 2024 12:20 CST
• 3 min read

Caoimhin Kelleher produced a masterful display during Liverpool’s Carabao Cup final win against Chelsea, with the Irishman selected in between the sticks amid Alisson’s hamstring injury.

The Republic of Ireland international has been criticised a fair amount this season, after several errors in the Premier League, but he stepped up big time once again at Wembley.

Kelleher was the hero during Liverpool’s Carabao Cup and FA Cup victories over Chelsea in 2022 and he played a key role yet again in 2024.

He denied Cole Palmer from point-blank range in the first-half before making yet more crucial interventions in the second 45 minutes, most notably his one-on-one save against Conor Gallagher.

Kelleher made six saves during normal time, the same as his opposite number Djordje Petrovic, and he kept his side in the final with several big contributions, before Virgil van Dijk scored the eventual winner in the 118th minute.

The Irishman has become known for his cup heroics in a Liverpool shirt, but his Carabao Cup final performance was further proof that he needs to be displaying his talent on a far more regular basis.

As a result, a move away from Liverpool in 2024 should be one of his priorities if he values game time as highly as most footballers do.

Alisson is the undisputed number one at Anfield and given the Brazilian is arguably the world’s best goalkeeper, Kelleher will never displace him in between the sticks. Therefore, a move away seems like a smart idea this summer.

Who should Caoimhin Kelleher join this summer?

If staying in the Premier League is Kelleher’s preference, there may only be a few options for him.

Crystal Palace and Wolves seem fairly settled with Dean Henderson and Jose Sa in between the sticks, although Kelleher may be a better ‘keeper than both, while Everton will not need a new number one unless Jordan Pickford leaves.

West Ham have Alphonse Areola, Bournemouth have Neto, Fulham have Bernd Leno; the list goes on.

As a result, a move abroad may be the best option for Kelleher.

Kelleher would be an excellent option for the likes of Freiburg and RB Leipzig in the Bundesliga, while he could be a smart pick-up for Real Betis or Villarreal in LaLiga.

Ultimately, Kelleher must decide whether he prioritises regular game time or if he is happy with his current role at Liverpool. This summer is a crunch moment, however, and his Carabao Cup final performance is proof that he must become a first-choice goalkeeper somewhere.