The Reds number one goalkeeper Alisson was ruled out of the Champions League clash against Ajax on Tuesday, but Klopp opted to throw Kelleher into the deep end of a crucial Champions League game instead of the natural backup keeper Adrian.
The former Borussia Dortmund coach suggested that the young Scottish man’s superior skill with his feet earned him the nod.
“I really think Adrian did for us an incredible job when he came in last season, beginning of this season, he kept I don’t know how many clean sheets. Super Cup final, Champions League, played everywhere,” Klopp said after the game.
“But now, in this game, we needed the football paying ability, the natural football playing ability of Caoimhin. And because he’s a really good shot-stopper as well, we made that decision.
“Then you never know how a boy… they’re all calm in the moment when they get the information but there’s a difference then to being on the pitch. I’m really happy with how he dealt with it, how calm he was, and how good he was.”
Kelleher only previous first-team experience had come in domestic cup competitions, and the 22-year-old has labeled his Champions League debut as a great one.
“It was an amazing one for me, to make my debut in a Champions League game was massive and we got the win and qualifed. A great night.
"That's what I'm there for, I work every day in training to make sure I am ready and I was able to make a good few saves.
"It's quite easy for me with the players in front of me, they give me good options. We are not here to take part, the young players want to push and play as many games as we can.
"My phone has been hot since I got in tonight, thanks for all the support."
