Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher has been forced to pull out of the Republic of Ireland squad for World Cup qualifiers this month due to injury.
The 22-year-old has been denied the opportunity to make his senior bow in Wednesday night’s qualifier in Serbia after being ruled out with an abdominal tear.
There had been hope the injury had subsided sufficiently for the young stopper to join up with Stephen Kenny’s squad, however, it wasn’t to be.
Kelleher hasn’t featured in a Reds matchday squad for a number of weeks due to the ongoing issue and now faces an extended spell on the sidelines.
This will come as a huge blow for the Irishman having enjoyed a meteoric rise this season making both his Premier League and UEFA Champions League debuts.
On both occasions, and in subsequent outings, Kelleher has thoroughly impressed, earning acclaim from Jurgen Klopp as a ‘top talent’ following his European exploits against Ajax.
L4L’s VIEW
Gutting news for Kelleher who has more than earned his chance for his nation.
Having usurped Adrian to become the understudy to Alisson Becker earlier this season, Kelleher will likely be installed as the permanent backup next term and perhaps receive plenty of opportunities to shine once again.
Meanwhile, Liverpool’s wretched luck with injuries shows no sign of coming to a much-needed end.
