In his first 19 games as Liverpool manager, Arne Slot has now delivered a remarkable 17 wins after dispatching Real Madrid 2-0 at Anfield.
Liverpool are still alive in all cup competitions and are top of both the Premier League and Champions League table – a start that may have even defied Slot’s wildest dreams.
What may provide even more confidence is the fact that many still believe that Liverpool haven’t entirely ‘clicked’ under Slot just yet, there could still be another level to come.
Carlo Ancelotti and Jude Bellingham complimented Liverpool after their defeat at Anfield, a side they both thought were the strongest in Europe right now.
And at least in the last month or so, a big share of the credit has to go to Caoimhin Kelleher, a stand-in goalkeeper who could start for almost any side in Europe.
Arne Slot says Caoimhin Kelleher has been ‘remarkable’ since Alisson injury
Kelleher has been deputising for Alisson Becker since he was injured in October, and his form has been nothing but exemplary.
The Republic of Ireland No.1 enjoyed another brilliant moment up against Real Madrid, saving a crucial penalty against Kylian Mbappe.
Caoimhin Kelleher of Liverpool FC celebrates saving the penalty during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD5 match between Liverpool F...
Photo by Pedro Salado/Getty Images
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Speaking to TNT Sports shortly after full-time, Slot labelled Kelleher’s performance as ‘outstanding’.
The Dutchman praised how well his No.2 had done since stepping in, but was also diplomatic enough to praise Alisson immediately after, too.
Speaking about both penalty misses in the game, Slot said: “In both situations you think it is probably going to go in. Both missed so they showed us today they are both human beings.
“In Mbappe’s case Kelleher was outstanding. He has done remarkable for us, just like our other goalkeeper who has been remarkable too.”
Liverpool planning huge reshuffle to make Giorgi Mamardashvili number one
Perhaps a lot of fans at Anfield will now be questioning Liverpool’s intention to sell Kelleher, a summer transfer window that could even see Alisson leave as well.
In the past, a £30m price tag has been mentioned for Kelleher, a fee that may even look like something of a bargain based on recent performances.
The Irishman clearly has what it takes to start regularly for a side hoping to win Europe’s biggest honours, and it really would be odd to watch him leave.
Of course, there does have to be some sympathy for Liverpool’s situation – they can’t start both Alisson and Kelleher.
But perhaps the summer decision to buy Mamardashvili is looking more peculiar by the game, even if he’s immensely talented too.
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