Former Premier League goalkeeper and Republic of Ireland legend Shay Given has encouraged Liverpool’s backup goalkeeper, Caoimhin Kelleher, to seek a move away from Anfield.
Given believes the talented 25-year-old has the ability to become a world-class goalkeeper but is being stifled by limited playing time behind Liverpool’s first-choice keeper, Alisson Becker.
In an interview with *The Mirror*, Given expressed his admiration for Kelleher’s abilities, emphasizing that the Irishman has demonstrated he is capable of being a starting goalkeeper in the Premier League.
“Kelleher played 26 games last season and showed he has the quality to be a No. 1 at this level,” Given said.
“However, he’s turning 26 soon, and it’s clear that staying at Liverpool will not allow him to reach his full potential.”
Given pointed out that Liverpool manager Arne Slot’s firm stance on Alisson’s status as the club’s undisputed starter could be disheartening for Kelleher.
“Every player wants to feel they have a genuine shot at competing for a starting role. For Caoimhin, though, it’s obvious that he’ll always be second to Alisson, who is one of the best in the world,” Given remarked.
While acknowledging Kelleher’s loyalty to Liverpool, Given stressed that the goalkeeper needs to prioritize his career development at this stage.
“He has been a great servant to Liverpool, but the reality is that he needs regular game time to grow. If that means pushing for a move, then so be it. In ten years, he won’t want to look back and regret not seizing the chance to establish himself as a top-level goalkeeper,” he added.
Since making his senior debut for Liverpool in 2019, Kelleher has made 55 appearances, keeping 19 clean sheets. Among his standout performances was his crucial role in Liverpool’s 2022 League Cup final victory against Chelsea, where he not only made key saves but also scored the decisive penalty in a thrilling shootout.
Despite these accomplishments, Kelleher has largely been confined to a backup role, with Alisson firmly entrenched as Liverpool’s No. 1. There was significant interest in Kelleher last summer, notably from Nottingham Forest, but Liverpool declined to entertain offers.
Speculation around Kelleher’s future has intensified, particularly with Liverpool’s recent acquisition of Giorgi Mamardashvili, viewed as Alisson’s eventual successor.
Reports suggest Kelleher has privately expressed his desire to leave the club next summer, aiming to secure a role where he can be the primary goalkeeper. With several clubs reportedly interested in acquiring his services, Kelleher seems poised to take the next step in his career in pursuit of fulfilling his potential.
