JUST IN: Liverpool fans left in shock this morning after hearing the heartbreaking news about Caoimhin Kelleher. đź’”
Liverpool has received a significant boost ahead of their trip to Wolves on Saturday, as Alisson Becker is set to return from injury and is expected to start in goal for the Reds. The Brazilian goalkeeper had missed Liverpool’s last two matches due to a minor hamstring issue sustained during the team’s opening Champions League fixture against AC Milan last week.
However, Alisson has now returned to full training and participated in the entire session with the squad on Friday ahead of the match at Molineux. During his pre-match press conference, manager Arne Slot confirmed that Alisson is fit and ready to play, which is a huge relief for Liverpool as the 31-year-old has been an essential figure for the team in recent seasons.
Slot stated, “We think he is (ready to play). He trained yesterday as part of our session with the group, so we’re expecting him to do the whole session today. So we think he is available.” He also expressed satisfaction with Alisson’s return, while acknowledging the performances of Caoimhin Kelleher, who stood in for Alisson during his absence. “Of course, we’re really happy with Alisson being back but I want to emphasise the fact that Caoimhin (Kelleher) did really well in the two games he was in goal for us,” Slot added. “It’s another example of me having two, and I think even three, good options in certain positions.”
**Caoimhin Kelleher’s Future at Liverpool**
Despite the positive news regarding Alisson’s return, Caoimhin Kelleher, who performed admirably in the last two games, will likely be disappointed to be dropped for the Wolves fixture. The 25-year-old Irish goalkeeper knows his role as a backup, but with Alisson now fit again, Kelleher’s opportunities in the starting XI will be limited.
Given his age and talent, Kelleher would benefit from seeking more playing time elsewhere, as it’s clear there is no place for him in Liverpool’s first-choice lineup as long as Alisson is available. The Ireland international is certainly a capable option for many clubs, and with rumors suggesting the arrival of Giorgi Mamardashvili to Merseyside next summer, it seems likely that this could be Kelleher’s final season at Anfield.