Liverpool’s captain, Virgil van Dijk, showered praise on Caoimhin Kelleher, labeling him “world class” following their triumphant moment of lifting the 2024 Carabao Cup trophy at Wembley.
Throughout this season’s Carabao Cup campaign, the Irish goalkeeper, who had previously thwarted Chelsea in a penalty shootout during the 2022 final, displayed another remarkable performance, acting as a pivotal barrier against the Blues and providing Liverpool with a solid foundation to clinch victory.
Despite scoring the decisive goal in the 118th minute, Van Dijk made sure to acknowledge Kelleher’s contribution, highlighting his nine crucial saves during the intense two-hour match. Undoubtedly, alongside his captain, the 25-year-old emerged as Liverpool’s standout player.
Amidst a squad plagued by injuries, Kelleher, at 25, represented one of the more experienced Liverpool players on the field. The final moments saw younger talents such as Bobby Clark, 19, James McConnell, 19, Jayden Danns, 18, and Jarell Quansah, 21, alongside Conor Bradley and Harvey Elliott, both 20, contributing to the team’s success.
“When you’re young and get an opportunity, you have to grab it with both hands. Obviously it’s easier said than done, but the guys did it,” Van Dijk explained.
“The culture of the club makes them do it as well and it’s good to see. It should be just like a start [and] they should use it to kick on. I’m sure they will. Obviously, [more senior] players will come back in time, but they should just keep pushing to get close to the team and be part of the squad. To experience this as a 17, 18, 19-year-old only benefits you.”
