As Alisson Becker nears a return, what next for Caoimhín Kelleher?

Caoimhín Kelleher further enhanced his burgeoning reputation as he played a starring role in Liverpool's 2-0 victory over Real Madrid on Wednesday night.

His penalty save from Kyllian Mbappe was the headline moment for the Cork goalkeeper but it was his all-round performance that really drew the eye.

With little to do in a first half, in which the Reds were dominant without scoring, Kelleher marshalled his defence well and showed the kind of confidence that breeds belief among his team-mates.

A busier second half saw him make some big saves from Jude Bellingham and Lucas Vazquez along with ensuring his side kept their noses in front with the game at 1-0, and Mbappe lining up a penalty.

It was the kind of no-nonsense performance that supporters have come to expect from Kelleher since he took over between the sticks from Alisson Becker at the start of October, but that time is drawing to an end.

Alisson watched on from the stands on Wednesday evening and despite the fine form of Kelleher in recent months, the Ireland international is set for a return to the bench as the Brazilian star nears full fitness.

Liverpool face their biggest game of the season this weekend as they take on a stuttering Manchester City at Anfield, with the chance to move 11 points clear of the champions and Alisson could return to the starting line-up.

Manager Arne Slot has made no secret of the pecking order in goal at Anfield, saying "the moment Alisson will be fit he will be our first goalkeeper".

So where does that leave Kelleher?

His recent run of games has illustrated that he’s too good a goalkeeper to continue as back-up and he’s now at the age where he needs to be a first-choice player.

Wednesday’s clash with Madrid was the 57th time he’s played a