Arne Slot Confident in Kelleher Ahead of Historic Merseyside Derby
It’s a big week for Liverpool fans, and the stakes couldn’t be higher as the Reds prepare for the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park. Liverpool boss Arne Slot has thrown his full support behind goalkeeper Caoimhín Kelleher, who is set to start again in place of the injured Alisson Becker. Despite a costly error in Liverpool’s dramatic 3-3 draw against Newcastle United on Wednesday, Slot believes Kelleher has what it takes to bounce back and deliver when it matters most.
Alisson, Liverpool’s first-choice goalkeeper, has been sidelined since early October with a hamstring injury. While his absence could have been a major blow, Kelleher has stepped up admirably, helping Liverpool maintain a seven-point lead at the top of the Premier League table and preserve their perfect record in the revamped Champions League. Slot confirmed that Alisson is on the mend and will return “very soon,” but for now, the Republic of Ireland international remains the man between the posts.
Kelleher’s Rollercoaster Night at St. James’ Park
Wednesday night’s clash with Newcastle United was a rollercoaster for Kelleher. The 25-year-old made a stunning first-half save to deny Anthony Gordon, keeping Liverpool in the game. However, his decision not to claim a late Newcastle free-kick allowed Fabian Schär to sneak in at the back post and score a 90th-minute equalizer. The dramatic match ended 3-3, with Liverpool twice coming from behind to salvage a point.
Slot addressed the situation in a press conference on Friday, saying, “It was at 1-0 when Joe Gomez made a mistake and [Kelleher] saved us in that moment, so maybe he saved us a point because if we went 2-0 down, you never know what can happen afterwards, but things could have been even harder for us.”
He continued, “Unfortunately for Caoimhín, in that position, if you make a mistake as a goalkeeper, it is very difficult for someone else to cover it up for you. He’s done that a few times for us—he’s been there to help us when a player makes a mistake. Unfortunately, we, as a team, are not able to help him if he misjudges a ball because he is our last player.”
Despite the setback, Slot expressed confidence in Kelleher’s ability to rebound. “He’s in a good place although he is disappointed, like all the others, because we dropped points from a winning situation one minute before the end. But he can go into this game with a lot of confidence, let that be clear. Alisson is not ready yet but he will be soon.”
Injury Woes Continue for Liverpool
It’s not just Alisson who remains on the sidelines for Liverpool. Slot confirmed that long-term absentees Diogo Jota and Federico Chiesa are still unavailable for Saturday’s derby, though both are nearing a return. Defenders Ibrahima Konaté, Kostas Tsimikas, and Conor Bradley are also set to miss the game.
Goodison Park’s Swan Song
Saturday’s Merseyside derby will mark the end of an era, as it’s set to be the last league meeting between Liverpool and Everton at Goodison Park. Everton will move to their new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock next season, leaving behind their iconic home of 131 years. The historic significance of the occasion isn’t lost on Slot.
“It’s going to be special for everyone,” Slot said. “For all of the fans that are involved, the players that are involved, and the managers. To be part of this game is already special, and to be part of the last one at Goodison Park probably makes it even more special. It’s only a nice experience if the result goes your way, so that is what we’re focusing on most.”
What to Watch For
As Liverpool and Everton prepare to clash, here are three key storylines to keep an eye on:
- Kelleher’s Redemption: Can the young goalkeeper shake off Wednesday’s mistake and deliver a standout performance in one of the most heated rivalries in football?
- Injury Impact: How will Liverpool cope without key players like Alisson, Jota, and Chiesa?
- Goodison’s Farewell: Will Everton rise to the occasion in their final derby at their historic home?
With so much on the line, this promises to be a derby for the ages. Liverpool fans will be hoping their team can deliver a memorable performance and keep their title charge on track, while Everton will be desperate to spoil the party in their Goodison Park swan song. Buckle up—it’s going to be a wild ride.
Originally Written by: Mark Ogden
