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Despite superb individual performances this season by Liverpool’s number two goalkeeper, Caoimhín Kelleher, his time in goal may soon be over due to the imminent return of the world-class Alisson Becker. Unfortunately for the 26-year-old Irishman, his impressive run may now be overshadowed by a crucial mistake he made in last week’s game against Newcastle, where a 90th-minute goal was conceded to Fabian Schär following a poor decision by the starting keeper. As a straightforward cross entered the penalty area, Kelleher chose to let the ball pass rather than collect it, a decision that ultimately proved costly as Alisson’s return to fitness approaches.
In the closing minutes of last week’s game, an unfortunate turn of events caused what seemed to be a glorious 2-3 lead to slip away, resulting in a disappointing 3-3 draw for Arne Slot. The match ended in a shared spoils on that stormy night at St. James’ Park, much to the dissatisfaction of the traveling support. Ultimately, securing a solitary away point from Eddie Howe’s side is an acceptable outcome; however, the fact that all three points were within reach of Mohamed Salah and his teammates is a difficult memory to shake off.
Alisson Becker on Instagram ♥️ #lfc pic.twitter.com/S7tgBeOL1M
— Anything Liverpool (@AnythingLFC_) December 9, 2024
Will Ali Come Straight Back into the Side?
Regarding the upcoming Champions League match against Girona, I wouldn’t be surprised to see the experienced Brazilian included in the starting lineup on Tuesday evening. This weekend, Fulham will travel to Merseyside to face Liverpool, who are coming off a recent and impressive draw with Arsenal. It could be beneficial to give Liverpool’s 32-year-old goalkeeper some valuable playing time ahead of his return to Premier League action. While I don’t think there would be any harm in having the former Roma player gain his next start on Saturday, it’s important to remember that assumptions can lead to unexpected mistakes. For instance, last week against Newcastle, many assumed that a high ball would be easily caught by Kelleher, only for it to be left for the eventual goal scorer. Such errors might be manageable in a European match against a struggling La Liga team, but they could prove costly in Liverpool’s ongoing pursuit of domestic success.
With the extensive firepower available to the Liverpool head coach, there is an opportunity to reintegrate the 6ft 4in player in a less stressful environment, where the weather conditions will be more favorable than those in the UK. We have witnessed the rustiness that can raise concerns within the backline of the six-time European Cup winners, with Joe Gomez struggling to find consistency just last week. Therefore, careful consideration suggests a starting role for the elite goalkeeper, who is now fit and included in the traveling party to the nearby town of Barcelona.
🔴Liverpool’s 19-man squad ahead of Girona clash:
Alisson, Kelleher, Jaros, Alexander-Arnold, Gomez, Quansah, Van Dijk, Robertson, Norris, McConnell, Endo, Jones, Szoboszlai, Elliott, Gravenberch, Gakpo, Diaz, Nunez, Salah. #LFC
— Ben Pescod (@benpescodjourno) December 9, 2024
What Impact Can The Return of Alisson Have?
The return of one of the world’s most coveted and respected goalkeepers can have a significant psychological impact on both the players in red and their opponents. The presence of such an exceptional footballer, who has consistently proven why he is considered the best in the world, can boost the confidence of the team. In elite-level football, small margins often determine the difference between failure and success. This is why Arne Slot was quick to emphasise the importance of having his undisputed number one back in the side as soon as he is fit.
This Liverpool squad features several world-class individuals who can make a pivotal difference in achieving success. Therefore, the moment Alisson Becker resumes his duties, the uplift in both the team and its supporters could be the critical factor that drives the squad toward even more silverware.
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