New Brentford goalkeeper Caoimhín Kelleher expressed no regrets about leaving Liverpool for the English capital in an interview following confirmation of his transfer.
The Bees sealed the signing of the Republic of Ireland for the fee of £12.5million on Tuesday. That figure is set to rise to £18million following add-ons.
Kelleher had repeatedly expressed his desire to be number one in order to develop his game. Which would improve his status within the national side.
The Corkman has time and time again shown his classy credentials. Perhaps most noticeable in the 2022 League Cup final victory, in which he was the spot-kick hero. Showing perhaps he could do a job outfield when he scored the deciding penalty.
Aside from that, he stepped up in the 2024-2025 season when Liverpool’s first-choice keeper, Alison, was out of the Liverpool team with injury.
Many believe Kelleher has earned the chance to prove himself as first choice. And after Tuesday’s transfer announcement, Brentford fans will be hoping he can deliver as the London club look to build on their successful 2024-2025 campaign.
“I’m buzzing, I’m really happy to be here. I don’t think it was very difficult for me to leave Liverpool.
“I felt for my own career that the time was right for me to go. To be a number one and to play every week.
“I heard of some interest a number of weeks ago. Once I knew Brentford was in for me, it was definitely one I was really excited about and wanted to do as quickly as possible.
“When I come back for pre-season, all focus will be on what I want to do next year; to work on certain goals and what I need to improve on.”
While the move was being finalised, the Irishman met with Brentford manager Thomas Frank and his backroom team. Their reasons behind wanting to sign him. As well as their development plan for the goalkeeper appears to appeal to the 26-year old.
“I came down to meet the manager and some of the coaches. They spoke to me about why they wanted me to be here and showed me around.
“It was interesting to see their point of view on why they wanted to sign me and how they think they can develop my game.
“It was impressive and I think the club’s a really good fit for me. They’ve got a really good track record of improving and developing players, which is what’s drawn here.”
Experienced sports journalist with expertise in GAA (Gaelic games), football, cricket, rugby and more. I frequently cover GAA for Irish daily national newspapers, the GAA, and Irish state broadcaster RTÉ. I am also on the media teams at London & Dublin GAA. My football experience includes work at professional football clubs such as Queens Park Rangers, Wimbledon and Arsenal. I have also covered major competitions such as the Champions League and Euro 2024. Outside of the sports above, I co-ran the official social media channels of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.
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