Keith Andrews has sent Jamie Carragher a clear transfer message after joking that Liverpool can forget about bringing Caoimhin Kelleher back from Brentford.
The Irishman left Anfield for Brentford last summer and has been brilliant in his first full season as an undisputed Premier League No.1.
Some Liverpool fans want Kelleher back at the club. Especially if Alisson Becker’s Juventus links materialise into a deal, it’s a very appealing option. But it’s not going to happen, at least if the Brentford head coach has his way.
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Arne Slot reacts animatedly during Liverpool's UEFA Champions League match against Galatasaray at Anfield (Credit: Getty Images/Carl Recine).
Liverpool head coach Arne Slot kisses the Premier League trophy after the final day of the 2025/26 season at Anfield (Credit: Getty Images/Carl Recine).
Photo Credit: Getty Images/Carl Recine
Keith Andrews lauds Caoimhin Kelleher and shuts down Liverpool return
Many thought Brentford would go down after losing Thomas Frank, Bryan Mbeumo, Yoane Wissa and Christian Norgaard, but Andrews has defied the odds and Kelleher has played a big part.
Before Brentford’s spirited loss to Manchester United, Andrews was asked about the importance of the former Liverpool goalkeeper to a side that has exceeded expectations this season.
Speaking to Jamie Carragher on Sky Sports, Andrews said: “You’re not getting him back – that’s for sure, Jamie!
“He’s been exceptional. I’ve known him a long time. I’ve coached him with the Irish under-21s and senior team. I know all about his qualities and how much he needed to take that step into first-choice territory.
Brentford's Caoimhin Kelleher applauds fans ahead of the Premier League match against Fulham at the Gtech Community Stadium
Photo by MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images
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“For us it was a no-brainer last year when he became available, and I did genuinely feel it would be a good move for him, and he’s been outstanding. He’s gone from strength to strength as the season has gone on.”
We all saw Kelleher’s qualities when he was at Anfield, but it is still great to see him thriving now that he has the regular platform he always needed.
It could sting by the end of the summer, though, because Liverpool may soon wish they still had him around.
Alisson uncertainty leaves Liverpool looking weaker in goal
Alisson is flirting with a Liverpool exit, and the uncertainty around his future has added another awkward layer to summer planning.
Mamardashvili was signed to be the long-term No.1, and Freddie Woodman has offered capable cover, but that still feels a lot weaker than the combination of Alisson and Kelleher from last season.
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Giorgi Mamardashvili will be watching closely…
The 27-year-old was never likely to hang around as a back-up forever, and Liverpool can hardly blame him for wanting to prove himself elsewhere.
Still, if Alisson does leave and Brentford stand firm on Kelleher, FSG will have another transfer problem to solve.
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