“Not the REGULAR team you know” – Arne Slot reveals the players that will be STARTING the match against West Ham, includes NEW Signings and 4 other ‘irregular’ players to ‘DESTROY’ West Ham.

Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhín Kelleher is set to start in goal for their Carabao Cup clash against West Ham on Wednesday. The Cork native will once again replace regular number one Alisson Becker, who is still recovering from a muscle injury. Kelleher, who impressed in his last appearance, will also likely feature in the upcoming league game against Wolves as Alisson races to regain fitness.

Alisson suffered the injury during Liverpool’s Champions League encounter with AC Milan, which sidelined him for their recent Premier League victory over Bournemouth. Kelleher stepped in for that match, marking his first appearance since April, and produced a standout performance that showcased his abilities. The Republic of Ireland international made several crucial saves, helping Liverpool secure a clean sheet and further enhancing his reputation among potential suitors. Kelleher has been open about his desire to leave Liverpool in search of regular first-team football elsewhere, as he aims to prove himself as a number one goalkeeper.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot praised Kelleher’s performance following the Bournemouth match, acknowledging the vital role he played in the win. “We needed our goalkeeper today more than in all the other matches we played before,” said Slot. He noted that Bournemouth had more opportunities than any of Liverpool’s previous opponents this season, but Kelleher’s quick reflexes and shot-stopping ability made the difference. Slot also highlighted that Alisson had performed well in previous games but hadn’t faced as many challenges as Kelleher did in this particular match.

Kelleher has become a reliable figure for Liverpool in cup competitions, especially in the Carabao Cup. In 2022, he played a pivotal role in Liverpool’s triumph over Chelsea in the final, even stepping up to convert the winning penalty in the dramatic shootout. The following year, he again donned the number one jersey in the final against Chelsea, which Liverpool won thanks to a goal from Virgil van Dijk after extra time. As Liverpool begins their title defense in this year’s competition, Slot confirmed that Kelleher will start against West Ham, with Alisson still on the mend.

“Caoimhín will be in goal tomorrow. That’s the one thing I know for sure at this moment,” Slot said. “Alisson is getting there, but I think this game [against West Ham] is coming just a bit too early. We’re looking at the weekend against Wolves, but it’s going to be tight, so let’s see if he manages to be there.”

In addition to confirming Kelleher’s place in the starting lineup, Slot hinted at potential changes for the West Ham match to ensure the squad remains fresh. Federico Chiesa, a recent signing, is in line to start, although Slot emphasized that the Italian winger isn’t yet ready to play a full 90 minutes. Chiesa has made two appearances as a substitute since joining the team and could get more game time as he continues his return to full fitness.

Slot is expected to rotate his starting XI for the Carabao Cup tie, with several players eager for a chance to impress. Curtis Jones, Jarell Quansah, Wataru Endo, and Cody Gakpo are all likely to feature in the lineup. Slot emphasized the importance of squad rotation, stating, “We will play with the best possible team, and that can also mean that I will select different players. They will come in today, and we will see how fit they are, and then I will make a decision.”

Chiesa, though not fully match-fit, is one of several players being considered for a starting role. “I don’t think Chiesa is ready to play 90 minutes, but he is able to start. If he will, let’s see. There are many options we have,” Slot said. With a busy fixture schedule ahead, Liverpool will need to manage their players’ fitness carefully to avoid injuries and fatigue.

In addition to Kelleher and Chiesa, other players expected to be rotated in for the West Ham match include Conor Bradley, Joe Gomez, Kostas Tsimikas, and Quansah in defense. In midfield, Tyler Morton and Trey Nyoni could get opportunities to play alongside Endo and Jones. Up front, Cody Gakpo is expected to replace Luis Diaz, who started in the previous game, while Darwin Nunez may continue to lead the attack after scoring a spectacular left-footed goal in the win against Bournemouth.

Slot’s strategic squad rotation is aimed at keeping his players fresh for the remainder of the season, particularly as they juggle domestic and European competitions. While Liverpool has the home advantage against West Ham, the manager is mindful of the need to maintain the fitness of key players like Chiesa, Gakpo, and Nunez, among others, as the team pushes for success on multiple fronts.

Liverpool fans will be eagerly watching how the team handles the cup tie, especially with Kelleher in goal and several potential lineup changes. The Carabao Cup offers a valuable opportunity for younger and fringe players to stake their claim for more regular playing time, and Slot’s tactical approach reflects a balance between giving those players chances and ensuring the team remains competitive.

As for Alisson, his fitness remains a concern, with Slot admitting that it will be a race against time to get him back for the Wolves match. Kelleher’s solid form, however, gives Liverpool reassurance in goal, as the young goalkeeper continues to rise to the occasion whenever called upon.

Liverpool’s Carabao Cup match against West Ham will be a test of the squad’s depth, and Kelleher’s role could be crucial as the Reds seek to retain the trophy they won last year. With Alisson’s return uncertain, Kelleher’s performances in the coming games will likely be closely monitored, both by Liverpool and other clubs interested in securing his services for the future.