24 September 2023 , 01:00
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Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher has urged Jurgen Klopp to give him a platform to impress in the Europa League this season.
Kelleher, 24, is highly-rated at Anfield but behind Alisson Becker in the pecking order. The Republic of Ireland international has impressed in the past during cup competitions, though, and has deputised for the Brazilian on occasions in the Premier League.
After spending the first few weeks of the season on the sidelines, Kelleher was drafted in for the 3-1 win over LASK in midweek. And the shot-stopper is hopeful there will be plenty more first-team opportunities for him in Europe.
Speaking to Liverpoolfc.com, Kelleher said: "It's my first competitive game since Southampton. Same as outfielders, there's always that bit of rustiness. It was nice to get out there and hopefully I can play a few more games in this competition."
While Kelleher may not feature regularly in the Premier League, other sides are more than aware of his talent. He was heavily linked with a transfer in the build-up to the summer transfer window, with Brentford amongst the clubs who were credited with an interest in Kelleher's services.
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The Bees were in the market for a new goalkeeper to replace David Raya in the summer. However, Liverpool's £15million asking price was deemed 'unrealistic' for a player who has made just a handful of senior appearances.
It's unclear whether or not Kelleher was open to making such a move at the time. It was clear, though, that Liverpool had no desire to lose the Irishman.
Join the debate! Do you think Liverpool should be playing Kelleher more? Let us know here.
Kelleher usually only features for Liverpool in cup competitions (Rui Vieira/AP/REX/Shutterstock)Speaking back in May, Klopp stressed that he had no intention of parting ways with Kelleher. After being asked about transfer speculation, the German said: “Caoimhin Kelleher? He has a contract! You want us to say goodbye just incase? I honestly can’t see Caoimh leaving. It must be an extraordinary offer for me to start thinking [of selling him], I have to say.”
Prior to Thursday night's win in Austria, Kelleher's last appearance for Liverpool came on the final day of last season in the thrilling 4-4 draw against Southampton.
Kelleher's hopes of regular action are likely to hinge on Liverpool's progress in Europe. After opening their campaign earlier this week, the Reds will face Union Saint-Gilloise and Toulouse home and away between now and Christmas.