Jurgen Klopp has made a U-turn on his verdict of one of his former Liverpool stars (Image: Liverpool FC)
Arne Slot has officially taken over as Liverpool’s manager from Jurgen Klopp, but the German manager’s shadow will probably cast a long shadow over Anfield during the summer transfer window.
After Caoimhin Kelleher revealed details of his conversations with the German manager, Jurgen Klopp urged the goalkeeper to find a place where he can play frequently.
Before leaving Liverpool at the end of the previous season, Klopp managed the team for nine years. He oversaw Kelleher’s ascent from the academy into the first team in recent years.
The Irishman has been forced to cover for Alisson for a large portion of that time. After the Reds No. 1 was injured in February of last year, he did see an increase in playing time.
Now that Kelleher’s Brazilian rival is back to full fitness, it is widely anticipated that he will leave Anfield in search of regular football. Furthermore, it seems that Klopp would be totally in favor of Kelleher taking this action.
Klopp believes Caoimhin Kelleher now needs to go out and play regularly ( Image: Getty Images)
“I think that was the main goal, to prove to everyone else, and I was always waiting for that chance to get a run of games.” It was about proving to everyone else that I could play at this level, even though I always thought I was competent.
Speaking with Kelleher, Klopp seems to be taking a significant turn around. Earlier, he had stated unequivocally that the Irishman would not be permitted to leave Anfield while he was manager.
“He was exceptional,” Klopp remarked following a February victory over Brentford. “Respect them if they have a better goalkeeper; I’m not sure who is the best for Ireland. He is exceptional. We gave him more games this year than he had last. It’s totally earned.
“We require him. His rhythm is what we need. The circumstances surrounding Alisson now demonstrate how logical that is. While Alisson’s absence is uncertain, Caoimhin is a remarkable player. His performance was A+.
