Dutch defender Virgil van Dijk, who has been Liverpool’s captain since last season, has put in a string of good performances this season that belies his 33 years of age, not only leading the final line but also closing down the opposition ace against Manchester City.
The second choice Irish goalkeeper, Caoimhin Kelleher, has recently been entrusted with the job behind the veteran centre-back.
A reserve goalkeeper with top-level ability not only in the Premier League but around the world, he has been guarding the goalmouth during the period Alison Becker has been injured.
He is a calm and composed player with excellent footwork and passing skills as well as shot-stopping.
The Dutch defender, who is also the leader of the defence, is a great admirer of the reserve goalkeeper, who is also regarded as the strongest. He said his development has been spectacular.
“Fantastic goalkeeper, fantastic human being, It’s never easy to be a back-up goalkeeper, but obviously, in his case, he has an unbelievable, amazing goalkeeper in front of him.”
“But obviously the time that he has been playing, he has been absolutely outstanding. I really enjoy looking at him, seeing him, how much he has improved and played with confidence.”
“I remember one of his first games when he won us a penalty shoot-out. He’s come from a long way as well, and he’s an amazing goalkeeper.”