Cork’s Caoimhín Kelleher is set for another trip to Wembley after helping Liverpool secure a spot in the Carabao Cup final. The Reds will face Chelsea on February 25th at the iconic football venue. Kelleher, a product of Ringmahon Rangers academy, played the full 90 minutes in the semi-final against Fulham and made several impressive saves, ensuring Liverpool’s qualification for their third domestic final in three seasons.

Liverpool entered the game with a 2-1 advantage from the first leg at Anfield, and they got off to a dream start when Luis Díaz scored in the 11th minute at Craven Cottage. Fulham responded in the second half with a close-range finish by Issa Diop that left Kelleher with no chance. However, the goalkeeper remained composed for the remaining time, and Liverpool secured a 3-2 aggregate victory, setting up a rematch of the 2022 final against Chelsea.

Kelleher has been a consistent presence for Liverpool this season as they compete for multiple trophies. He has featured regularly in the UEFA Europa League, helping the team progress from a group that included Union Saint-Gilloise, Lask, and Toulose. This earned Liverpool a bye into the Round of 16 instead of participating in a playoff tournament in February. Kelleher has also played in Premier League matches against Fulham and Sheffield United, contributing to two victories for Jurgen Klopp’s side.

While Kelleher has yet to feature in the FA Cup, as Allison was chosen for the third-round victory over Arsenal, he has made his mark in the Carabao Cup. He played in matches against Leicester City, Bournemouth, and West Ham, with his standout performance coming in the second leg of the semi-finals at Craven Cottage. Kelleher made a series of crucial saves to deny Fulham an equalizer that could have forced the tie into extra time.

Once again, Kelleher finds himself in a similar position to two years ago, deputizing for Allison when required. This has led to speculation about his future, with suggestions that the Cork native may seek first-team football by leaving Anfield during the January or summer transfer window. The favorites among bookmakers to sign Kelleher are Scottish giants Celtic, with Wolves and Bournemouth also high on the list.

For now, Kelleher will continue to stand between the posts for Liverpool in four different competitions over the coming months. The Europa League will be a top priority for the club, and the final is scheduled to take place at the Aviva Stadium.