Would that be so bad? This season he has played more than the past two campaigns combined and it was a pleasure to see a career understudy have a moment of unalloyed glory. Two years ago he started this fixture against the same opponents, with Alisson on the bench. Liverpool won that day too, Kelleher scored a penalty in the shoot-out but also conceded 10. This was a purer occasion.
Before that final he was dreaming of appearing on a mural of Liverpool’s greatest goalkeepers which sits behind a pitch at their training ground. Clearly he has still has some way to go, but do not underestimate the allure of making history with a club of Liverpool’s size.
Kelleher could be first choice for several Premier League teams, clubs overseas will surely be interested and extra playing time might appeal. Gavin Bazunu’s impressive season for Southampton is challenging Kelleher’s status as Ireland’s number one. But what might Kelleher’s career look like if, for example, mooted interest from Nottingham Forest had resulted in a transfer?
More games, without doubt, and probably more to do than when playing behind Van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate. Yet with Liverpool playing this well there is a near guarantee of finals. Possibly more trophies, maybe, if things go really well, more days like these. It would be a brave player to give that up.
Sophie Anderson, a UK-based writer, is your guide to the latest trends, viral sensations, and internet phenomena. With a finger on the pulse of digital culture, she explores what’s trending across social media and pop culture, keeping readers in the know about the latest online sensations.
