Sutton: Why Liverpool Keeper Should Join Celtic Next Season | OneFootball

Kelleher’s Time to Shine? Why Celtic Could Be the Perfect Destination for Liverpool’s Backup Keeper

Liverpool’s reserve goalkeeper, Caoimhin Kelleher, is making waves with his push to find a starting role away from Anfield. With Giorgi Mamardashvili’s arrival expected next season as Alisson’s long-term successor, Kelleher’s aspirations for regular game time are finally coming to a head. Former Celtic forward Chris Sutton has added fuel to this fire, urging the Republic of Ireland’s current No.1 to consider a move to Scottish champions Celtic, citing the Irish connection and the allure of regular minutes. Sutton’s viewpoint, voiced on It’s All Kicking Off, resonates with those who believe Kelleher has served his time as Liverpool’s unsung hero on the bench.

Why a Move Makes Sense for Kelleher

Kelleher’s recent interview with The Telegraph confirms his desire for more than just a backup role: “I was quite clear [last summer] that I wanted to play first-team football, whether that was here or elsewhere. I wanted to be a No.1.” For a player who has trained and developed under Liverpool’s rigorous standards, finding a team that appreciates his potential is crucial. Sutton commented on Kelleher’s quality as a backup, saying, “He’s the best backup keeper, I think, I’ve ever seen in the Premier League.” Yet, with Alisson firmly in place and Mamardashvili on the horizon, Kelleher’s path to a starting role at Liverpool appears to be blocked.

Celtic: A Chance to Shine Every Weekend

For Kelleher, Celtic isn’t just about the Irish connection; it’s a team that could immediately benefit from his abilities. Sutton’s suggestion underscores Celtic’s need for a skilled shot-stopper who can stabilise their defence and help them thrive domestically and in European competitions. A move to Celtic would also allow Kelleher to join a club where his talent can shine without the shadow of Liverpool’s iconic No.1, Alisson.

Kelleher’s Career Goals Align with Celtic’s Needs

Kelleher’s ambition is evident as he reflects on his time at Liverpool. “I think with anything after a while, maybe after doing a few seasons of a similar thing, you want to keep pushing forward and keep going to the next level,” he stated. This mentality aligns perfectly with Celtic’s aim to reclaim European respect and dominate Scottish football. If Kelleher moved to Celtic, it could be a win-win, offering him first-team experience and allowing Celtic access to a goalkeeper capable of big saves under pressure.

Photo: IMAGO

An Inevitable Exit from Anfield?

Given Liverpool’s evolving roster, Kelleher’s decision to seek greener pastures is understandable. A move north of the border would not only suit his career trajectory but also give Liverpool a chance to profit from his transfer. Sutton summarised this viewpoint aptly: “Where should Kelleher go to? Celtic.” For Liverpool, letting go of their reliable backup might be a tough call, but it’s one that could ultimately benefit all parties involved. As Kelleher searches for an environment where he can prove himself week after week, Celtic seems like a logical step for both player and club.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Kelleher’s move away from Anfield would be bittersweet. While his skill set and reliability on the bench have been valued, fans understand his yearning for regular game time. An exit seems inevitable, especially with Liverpool’s future plans revolving around the soon-arriving Mamardashvili.

Photo: IMAGO

Liverpool supporters might question whether the club can afford to lose such a quality backup, yet they also know that the No.1 role at Celtic could provide Kelleher the stability and growth he deserves.

Fans appreciate Kelleher’s journey from Liverpool’s academy to Alisson’s understudy, watching him step up during high-pressure moments. Yet, the Anfield faithful understand that for Kelleher to reach his potential, he needs the opportunity to develop as a team’s primary goalkeeper. If Celtic is his next stop, they’ll watch him with pride, hoping he continues to excel. In the eyes of Liverpool supporters, his journey away from Anfield doesn’t close a door but rather opens a promising chapter for a talented keeper who’s given his all.