Liverpool invite a fight as Giorgi Mamardasvhili issues BLUNT Alisson warning
The goalkeeping situation at Liverpool has already been a bit of a carousel this season.
Alisson remains the starter, as expected from the man who has played 271 games in red since 2018. The injury bug has reared its ugly head for him again though, already missing two games this season and now set to miss six weeks with a hamstring issue as Liverpool go into a season-defining run of games.
This has opened the door for Irish international Caoimhin Kelleher to get an extended run in the team, much like he did when Alisson was injured last season. Turning 26 in November, Kelleher has made his desires to play first-team football consistently known.
Liverpool knocked back an offer for Nottingham Forest for Kelleher in the summer and have now played a £30m price tag on his head.
Kelleher was actually ill when Alisson had to be replaced early in Liverpool’s last outing against Crystal Palace. Third-choice keeper Vitězslav Jaroš had to step in and see out the last 12 minutes, which he did admirably, making the only save required of him.
And this is all before considering Liverpool’s agreement to sign Georgian Euro 2024 hero Georgi Mamardashvili from Valencia in the summer.
Mamardashvili speaks on Liverpool future
BeSoccer are reporting that, in speaking to Georgian state TV, Mamardashvili has said he wants to take Alisson’s starting job.
"I was attracted by Liverpool's project when the club's representatives met me to sign me.” Mamardashvili said, adding “I will fight for the starting goalkeeper position even if the current goalkeeper does not leave the team".
This was to be expected from the Georgian shot-stopper. Alisson has been the subject of multiple rumours for moves away from Anfield, including links to Spanish giants Barcelona.
Mamardashvili also mentioned that he has been learning English in anticipation of his move to Merseyside. If Alisson does leave, this throws another spanner in the works for Kelleher’s desires to play consistent first-team football, as Liverpool will surely require his services as a backup.
The only thing certain is that Liverpool’s goalkeeper room will look drastically different next season.