Fri Sep 13 08:36:00 UTC 2024: ## Liverpool Manager Defends Kelleher’s Ambitions, Insists It’s “Normal” for Players to Want to Play
Liverpool manager Arne Slot has defended Caoimhín Kelleher’s desire to play more first-team football, stating that he would be more concerned if the Irish goalkeeper didn’t want to feature regularly.
Kelleher, who recently expressed his desire to move for more playing time, is currently Liverpool’s backup goalkeeper to Alisson. Despite denying Kelleher’s request to leave, manager Slot acknowledged that it’s natural for players to want to play, especially given Kelleher’s impressive performances.
“I would be really worried if a player comes out saying ‘I don’t care about playing first-team football,’ ” Slot said. “It’s normal that a club like this, that tries to compete for trophies, has more than eleven players that can play.”
Slot also highlighted Kelleher’s willingness to contribute despite not starting every game, and emphasized his strong performances both in pre-season and past seasons.
With the signing of Giorgi Mamardashvili for next season, Slot’s comments suggest a commitment to fostering a competitive environment while acknowledging the individual aspirations of players within the squad.
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