Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has insisted it is "too early" to talk about whether Caoimhin Kelleher will remain at Anfield beyond this season following the goalkeeper's heroics versus Real Madrid.
The popular Irish star has earned cult hero status on the Kop as a result of his impressive performances as Alisson Becker's understudy in recent years. Demonstrating his talents once more against Los Blancos, the 26-year-old set the Reds on the path to a famous 2-0 victory against Los Blancos with a stunning second half penalty save.
Alexis Mac Allister had put Liverpool in front after the interval, before Andy Robertson was adjudged to have fouled Lucas Vazquez in the penalty box. However, Kelleher was able to deny superstar forward Kylian Mbappe from the spot, getting down to his left to keep out the Frenchman's effort and maintain Liverpool's slender 1-0 lead.
His save provided a springboard for the hosts to double their advantage, as Cody Gakpo eventually put the seal on a memorable victory at Anfield. After Kelleher's pivotal role in the win, Reds boss Slot addressed the goalkeeper's long-term future on Merseyside following a string of strong showings while Alisson has been sidelined through injury.
For now, the former Feyenoord head coach is keeping an open mind as he confessed that he understands his players desiring regular first team football. He said: "I am expecting every player to want to be the No.1 - and that is in every position, not just the goalkeepers.
"It is always up to the player if they can accept their role but Caoimhin has accepted his role from the start of the season until now, in a great manner, when he did or didn't play. It is far too early to talk about next season. I want every player to want to play every game It would be completely wrong if he liked being on the bench."
Liverpool manager Arne Slot has discussed the future of back-up goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher
Liverpool manager Arne Slot has discussed the future of back-up goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher (Image: Richard Martin-Roberts - CameraSport via Getty Images)
The Dutchman added: "It is about the attitude when you don't play and that has been outstanding. I saw it with Macca and Lucho last Sunday when they weren't selected, and Dominik Szoboszlai and Cody Gakpo last night. They should have the eagerness to play and then react in a normal way if they don't."
Speaking last month, Kelleher admitted that he is seeking regular game-time, as he acknowledged that he may eventually need to move elsewhere to realize his ambition. He told the Telegraph: "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. That was my thought process – but it’s always been my thought process because obviously I am a football player and, like every player, I want to play. I’m not going to enjoy myself or be happy sitting on the bench."
The Irishman added: "When I was coming through the academy to work my way up, obviously when you first get into the No. 2 position you’re happy and it’s progress. 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."