Ireland’s Caoimhin Kelleher gives insight into relationship with Liverpool rival Alisson

Caoimhin Kelleher has opened up about his relationship with Alisson Becker, his rival for the number one jersey at Liverpool.

The Ireland goalkeeper is currently enjoying a run in the side thanks to a hamstring injury that has sidelined the Brazil net-minder until late next month.

Alisson suffered the injury in the 1-0 win away to Crystal Palace earlier this month - leading Reds boss Arne Slot to admit that he should have started Kelleher in goal that day.

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Kelleher is all set to feature in key games against RB Leipzig, Arsenal, Brighton, Bayer Leverkusen and Aston Villa as Alisson continues his recovery.

The Corkman has revealed how he reacted to his teammate’s set-back - and how he feels about the man standing between him and a regular first-team spot.

“First and foremost he is a teammate and I am good mates with Ali,” Kelleher said. “We are close so I sent him a text to say sorry about the injury.

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“It is not nice for him and I don’t like to see that happen to anyone, but it gives me opportunities to play some games which for me is a good thing.”

Kelleher also spoke in more detail about how close he came to leaving Liverpool last summer, with the Anfield club knocking back bids from Nottingham Forest for the 25-year-old.

“I spoke with the manager about the situation – but I was quite clear before he came in and it was never going to change because the fact is that I am up against Alisson and he’s one of the best in the world, so he’s always going to be number one and he’s always going to play,” he said.

“There were other factors, like negotiations with clubs as well as Liverpool needing to be happy. It just didn’t materialise and I didn’t get a move. But it’s not the worst thing in the world to stay at a club like Liverpool.”

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