Liverpool star can prove Jurgen Klopp correct and give Slot huge dilemma against Arsenal

Liverpool star Caoimhin Kelleher is set to be given an extended chance to prove correct Jurgen Klopp’s belief that the Irishman is the world’s best No. 2 goalkeeper.

Alisson Becker’s hamstring injury is set to keep the Reds’ first-choice goalkeeper out for at least their next two matches, handing an opportunity to Kelleher.

The 25-year-old excelled against RB Leipzig in midweek and will start against Arsenal on Sunday. He will likely also feature in Liverpool’s League Cup clash with Brighton on Wednesday.

Kelleher is an excellent goalkeeper who earned the highest of praise from former boss Klopp two years ago.

The German said after Kelleher’s performance in the 2022 Carabao Cup final triumph over Chelsea, in which he scored the winning penalty: “Alisson Becker is the best goalie in the world for me. There are other good goalkeepers out there but this goalie is absolutely insane.

“But to be honest for me Caoimhin Kelleher is the best No. 2 goalie in the world as well. The game he played tonight was absolutely incredible. I can remember at least two incredible saves, and probably there were more.”

Another top performance against Arsenal – which could help Liverpool extend their lead at the top of the Premier League – will prove Klopp correct. But it could also present a dilemma for the Liverpool icon’s successor, Arne Slot.

Kelleher has made little secret of the fact he wants to be a No. 1. He turns 26 next month and will want to spend the best years of his career playing regularly at a top Premier League club.

Read Liverpool’s full team news for their clash with Arsenal by clicking here

In fact, he does not like the moniker bestowed upon him by Klopp. “It’s not a title I want – I want to be playing week in, week out,” Kelleher said earlier this year. .

“It is important I play week in, week out now and get that No.1 position. I have to show everyone I am capable and good enough to play week in, week out. I feel I have the quality to play well when needed, even if that means I’m not playing a game in a few weeks I can come in and still show my quality, so that’s the most important part – to be ready when called upon.”

A move will likely come in the future, particularly if Alisson remains and summer signing Giorgi Mamardashvili is considered the 31-year-old’s long-term replacement. But for now, Kelleher can continue ensuring he remains the world’s best second-choice goalkeeper.