Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher produced another reputation-boosting night during Ireland’s 1-0 Nations League win over Finland on Thursday.
The Irish stopper saved a late penalty from Joel Pohjanpalo before scrambling across goal to smother the follow-up from Robin Lod to keep his side 1-0 up.
His team-mates slapped him in congratulations as he held the ball fast on the floor and the crowd went wild after the save.
Ireland held on to win 1-0 thanks to Brighton star Evan Ferguson’s goal in a victory that means they are safe from automatic relegation from League B – though they will have to stay up via the play-offs.
It is another triumph for Kelleher, who has only conceded five goals in his eight games deputising for Alisson at Liverpool this campaign.
Kelleher has once been proving his value at Liverpool this season – but with Alisson contracted until 2027, the opportunity for a permanent No 1 spot does not look forthcoming
His future with Arne Slot’s side is unclear considering that they bought Valencia and Georgia custodian Giorgi Mamardashvili from Valencia for £29million this summer.
He has immediately been loaned back to the Spanish side but the prospect of him competing for minutes at Anfield next season after such an outlay raises questions for Kelleher’s long-term future considering his ambition to play regular football.
I want to be playing week in, week out and be that No. 1,’ Kelleher, 25, said earlier this season.
‘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.’
Kelleher’s contract expires in 2026 and considering his impressive performances for club and country it would be no surprise to see a long list of suitors.
Former Ireland striker Kevin Doyle lauded his performance after the Finland win, telling RTE: ‘I think in five or six years he is going to be the top one or two goalkeepers in the world.
He’s that good at everything he does. He has got everything in the locker. He ticks every box. If he can get himself playing I feel he’s going to be the top man.’
