Liverpool fans were greeted to the surprising news this afternoon that 20-year-old Caoimhin Kelleher will start in goal for the Reds in their Carabao Cup clash against Arsenal on Wednesday.
The news was confirmed in a press conference by assistant manager Pep Lijnders when many Liverpool fans had expected usual back-up Adrian to return between the sticks for the cup clash. However, Kelleher, who made his Liverpool debut in their third-round win over MK Dons, will continue to feature for Jurgen Klopp’s side in this particular competition.
The Irishman joined Liverpool from Ringmahon Rangers in 2015 and was forced to wait until last month’s cup win to make his senior debut. Kelleher will no doubt be excited to make his home debut at Anfield on Wednesday night, perhaps alongside several other youngsters.
There was a mixed reaction from Liverpool fans, many of whom wanted to see 32-year-old Adrian return to the side after his run in the side earlier in the season, but it seems as if he will be the goalkeeper of choice when Liverpool enter the FA Cup in January.
Some of the best reactions from Liverpool fans to the news of Kelleher’s probable home debut can be seen in the tweets below.
Absolutely love it
— Joey (@Joeythemoon87) October 29, 2019
Good chance for him to prove himself once again after he had a good game vs MK, would’ve thought Adrian would’ve played though.
— Jacob Austin (@JacobAu28780303) October 29, 2019
It’s good to see them giving the young lad a chance just hope it’s not to much pressure on him …..good luck YNWA
— chris campbell (@CamboChris) October 29, 2019
Caoimhin Buffon*
— Cormac (@CormacMan1) October 29, 2019
Good decision. Adrian can play fa cup early rounds and Allison csn have a rest
— Stephen Drury (@stephen_drury90) October 29, 2019
Not a bother to him, a great young goalkeeper fair play
— the lavish man (@johnlavish22) October 29, 2019
He’s got great potentials so this is his chance to prove himself
— George Victor (@D_Richsoul) October 29, 2019
These Liverpool fans clearly back the young goalkeeper to make an impression against Arsenal on Wednesday.
What do we think?
It seems as if Premier League clubs are beginning to care less and less about the Carabao Cup, so it is no real surprise to see title-chasing Liverpool offer chances to youngsters for their tie against Arsenal. The Reds last won the League Cup in 2012 and if Arsenal choose to play a strong side against Klopp’s side on Wednesday night, then Liverpool fans may be waiting another year at least to win it again if L
