Arne Slot told to reconsider Caoimhin Kelleher stance as Liverpool 'needs to' make Alisson decision

Arne Slot has been told to consider even when usual regular shot-stopper returns to full fitness.

Alisson has been absent from starting eleven for more than one month, after the Brazilian star suffered an injury during victory over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park in October. Since then though has been a more than worthy replacement, stepping between the sticks with ease.

Since coming into the starting team in October, Kelleher has featured in all but one of Liverpool's matches in all competitions, keeping three clean sheets in that time.

His form has continued into the international break too, having kept a clean sheet for Ireland in a 1-0 win over Finland, which included a late double-penalty save to secure victory for his team. Despite the recent impressive run, Liverpool boss, Slot has already confirmed Alisson will return when fit.

"Caoimh has done outstanding," The Dutchman claimed following Liverpool's 2-0 victory against Aston Villa at Anfield last weekend. "Last season and this season again as well but the moment Alisson is fit, he will be our first goalkeeper.”

Despite Alisson announcing himself as arguably the best keeper on the planet in recent years, there have been calls for Kelleher to keep his spot even when his teammate returns. The latest backing for the Irishman has come from his fellow countryman Tony Cascarino.

Appearing on TalkSport, Cascarino pledged his support behind Kelleher, commenting: "They need to make Kelleher their number one as well as I think Kelleher is going to be... I would hate to see him go." The former Irish striker went on: "Alisson has had injuries over the years and he is a terrific goalkeeper but what I have seen from Kelleher this season.

"How he has grown; his ability on the ball; he has a much bigger confidence than 18 months ago and rightly so as he is playing more football. He has become Ireland's most important player and he is going to have to be the most important player when they play England tomorrow for Ireland to have any chance at all."

Responding to Slot's previous claim, Cascarino added: "'I think (Slot should) reconsider that. Like I said earlier, Slot has made so many incredible decisions. It has just been an incredible start to the season for Liverpool and Kelleher has played a big part in that.

"I know that Alisson gets injured and that they brought another goalkeeper in for next season but I wouldn't want to sell Kelleher. There is a goalkeeper that has a hell of a lot of improvement in him and - if anything - I am not sure Alisson will be the same 'keeper due to the injuries he has had."