Shay Given has praised Caoimhin Kelleher, describing him as "world class" and questioned why Premier League rivals Manchester United and Chelsea failed to pursue the talented shot-stopper.
Kelleher, who has impressed in recent seasons with crucial performances in both domestic and European competitions, is increasingly seen as one of the Premier League’s top keepers.
The 26-year-old is now impressing at international level with a standout performance in Republic of Ireland's 1-1 draw with Senegal.
Kelleher’s resilience was finally tested in the 81st minute, after making three crucial saves to keep the African side at bay in Dublin.
It’s been a significant week for the 26-year-old goalkeeper, who recently completed a move from Liverpool to Brentford for an initial fee of £12.5 million ($14.2 million), potentially rising to £18 million ($24 million) with add-ons.
"In the current climate he's worth every single penny, if not more. No disrespect to Brentford, but I'm surprised there wasn't a few more bigger clubs in," the former Newcastle United and Manchester City keeper said on RTE Sport.
"Unless clubs have gone, 'let's have a look at him at Brentford. We know they are a selling club, let's see him as a number one for a year or two'. At 26 years of age he's still plenty young enough. He looks the real deal"
The 49-year-old also shared his thoughts on the goalkeeping situations at Manchester United and Chelsea, adding "I would have gone in and got him".
Early in the second half, Kelleher pulled off a stunning save by tipping Krepin Diatta’s header onto the crossbar, denying what seemed like a certain goal, which Given described the save as “world class."
Caoimhin Kelleher
Shay Given questioned why Manchester United and Chelsea failed to make a move for Caoimhin Kelleher (Image: GETTY)
Kelleher then followed it up with another remarkable effort, blocking a shot off the line after a heavy deflection onto the post. He initially stopped the ball with his foot, but Crystal Palace forward Ismaila Sarr was quick to react and fired in the rebound.
Liverpool legend Dietmar Hamann also highlighted the key role Kelleher could play for Ireland as they prepare for their World Cup qualifying campaign in September.
He told RTE Sport: "I don't think there is a keeper in the group who is anywhere near as good as he is, I said last year, I think he is one of the top five keepers in the Premier League.
"Obviously one of those better than him was playing for the same club [Liverpool's Alisson ]. You'll struggle to find three of four better players than him in the Premier League and I think he'll show it next season."