Caoimhin Kelleher hopes Liverpool’s Carabao Cup triumph can be a springboard to further success this season as the goalkeeper reflected on an epic day at Wembley.
The Republic of Ireland international produced a heroic performance on Sunday as Jürgen Klopp’s side defeated Chelsea thanks to Virgil van Dijk’s extra-time header, securing the first silverware of the season and a record 10th League Cup in the process.
Kelleher saved superbly from Cole Palmer in the first half and from Conor Gallagher in the second, the 25-year-old delivering another big performance in a final, having done so in the same competition against the same opponents two years ago.
Speaking to Liverpoolfc.com afterwards, Kelleher discussed the importance of the win and what it could mean for Liverpool’s pursuit of further trophies this season.
“It’s a great kickstart for the rest of the season,” he said. “We still have plenty of competitions we want to go and do well in and win some, so moments like this give you extra motivation to want to go and do it again.
“The reaction with the fans and the whole team, how buzzing everyone was, I think that kind of sums it up. It’s a great way to kickstart the rest of the season and we are delighted.”
Kelleher admitted he had been preparing himself mentally for a penalty shootout when Van Dijk headed in Kostas Tsimikas’ corner, two minutes from the end of extra-time.
“As we got the corner I thought this was probably it, our last chance, as there wasn’t long left,” he said. “I’m happy for my heart [that] we got it, unlike last time [in 2022]!”
Reflecting on his own contribution to the win, for which he was later voted the supporters’ Player of the Match, Kelleher added: “It wasn’t bad!
“Obviously I’m happy to help the team and that’s what you have to do. In the big moments you have to step up and make saves
Liverpool’s triumph was even more impressive given the fact that injuries meant a number of youngsters were pressed into action, with the likes of Bobby Clark, Conor Bradley, Jayden Danns, James McConnell and Jarell Quansah all featuring, a fact Kelleher pointed out post-match.
“To be fair, looking around there’s a lot of young players and I used to be one of them!” he said. “Now I’m not one of them anymore and I thought they were excellent today.
“All the young lads that came in were absolutely superb and it’s a testament to the Academy and everyone there, the coaches, they came in today and they didn’t look out of place.”
Kelleher did, however, single out both Van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate for special praise, with the pair producing a colossal defensive performance on the day.
“Those two were brilliant today and Jarell when he came on as well,” he added. “To have them there you can really lean on them at times when you need them and Virg especially, he’s been a great leader this season and he stepped up again today.
“So, to have them in front of me makes my job a hell of a lot easier.”
Reporting By: Ajayi Oluwaseun Michael
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