Jake O'Brien has voiced his support for fellow Republic of Ireland international Caoimín Kelleher to become one of the Premier League's top goalkeepers amid a potential move from Liverpool to Brentford.
The 26-year-old attracted attention by his absence from the Irish side's morning training session on Monday as he headed to London to prepare for a move to the Gtech Community Stadium that could cost the Bees £18million.
Kelleher, who won a league title with the Reds this season, has been vocal about his desire to play regularly in the first team and with Mark Flecken looking set to leave for Bayer Leverkusen, Thomas Frank looks set to meet his request.
Everton defender O'Brien, who hopes to feature alongside his compatriot in Friday's friendly against Senegal in Dublin, told a news conference: “I don't need to explain how talented he is. I think everyone knows what his level is and what he has achieved in the last few years.”
“If that comes true, it would be a great step for him to take the number one position in the Premier League.
“It's a great choice for him, getting out there and playing every week is vital and he's more than capable of it. Brentford have done well this season so it's a club where he can develop and achieve a lot.
“I think everyone understands how good he is and what his potential is. He can move forward and achieve great things.”
Kelleher, who also has two League Cup wins to his name, made 20 appearances for Liverpool in all competitions this season but was again overshadowed by Brazilian Alisson Becker.
He has spoken openly on the international stage of late about his need to play every week and, having pulled on the Ireland shirt amid injuries to Gavin Bazunu, now looks set to begin a new chapter.
O'Brien said: “It's a tough question because he's Liverpool's No.2 but obviously he's got a really outstanding goalkeeper in front of him.
“He is definitely one of the best goalkeepers
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