Young Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher has revealed how Alisson Becker helped inspire a remarkable debut.
Kelleher, a Republic of Ireland U21 international, was handed a first senior outing when starting between the sticks at MK Dons in the League Cup third round on Wednesday.
The 20-year-old made an incredible point-blank save late on to repel Jordan Bowery's header and maintain a clean sheet in a 2-0 win for Jurgen Klopp's side.
And he received a pep talk before the match from Liverpool first-choice Alisson, currently recovering from a calf problem.
“I spoke to him Tuesday at Melwood and he just wished me luck and everything,” said Kelleher.
“It was very nice of him to say that and he said he would be watching and supporting me.
“It was an unbelievable night for me making my debut. I can’t sum it up in words really, it’s just unbelievable. To play for Liverpool for the first time was unbelievable.
“It gives me motivation to go and do it again and keep playing.”
Kelleher's save deep in the second half from Bowery left MK Dons manager Paul Tisdale dumbfounded.
But the keeper said: "I was just in the right position when he was heading the ball and if it hits you it hits you, so it was a good save but you take it as it comes."
Kelleher played behind a back four that included significant experience in James Milner, Dejan Lovren and Joe Gomez.
And, speaking to liverpoolfc.com, he added: "It really helps someone like me who is making their first start.
“It calms you and they talk to you a lot and stuff so it gives me a lot of confidence to go and play my normal game.”
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