Caoimhin Kelleher sends warning to England and Curtis Jones as Liverpool ace ready for Wembley

Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher has warned England and Curtis Jones that he is ready to step up and be the hero at Wembley

The 23-year-old is set to start in goal for the Republic of Ireland in their friendly against England on Thursday night and he is determined to make the most of his opportunity.

Kelleher has been in impressive form for Liverpool this season, keeping clean sheets in each of his last three appearances.

He is now hoping to use his performances for Ireland to show Gareth Southgate that he is ready to challenge Jordan Pickford for the England number one spot.

Kelleher said: "I'm feeling good. I'm confident in my ability and I'm ready to play.

"I know it's a big game and there's a lot of pressure, but I'm excited about the challenge."

Kelleher also had a message for his Liverpool teammate Curtis Jones, who is set to make his debut for England under-21s.

"I'm delighted for Curtis," said Kelleher.

"He's a great player and I'm sure he'll have a successful career with England.

"But I'm hoping he doesn't score against us on Thursday!"

Kelleher's performances for Liverpool have caught the attention of Southgate, who is said to be considering him as a potential replacement for Pickford.

Kelleher has made just nine appearances for Liverpool in all competitions, but he has impressed with his maturity and composure.

He is also a good shot-stopper and he is comfortable with the ball at his feet.

Kelleher's performances have also been praised by Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, who said: "Caoimhin is a fantastic goalkeeper.

"He's still young, but he has a lot of experience and he's a very good shot-stopper.

"He's also very good with his feet and he's a very good communicator.

"I'm really happy with him and I'm sure he has a big future ahead of him."

Kelleher will be hoping to continue his good form when he plays for Ireland against England on Thursday night.

It is a big opportunity for him to show Southgate that he is ready to challenge Pickford for the England number one spot.

Kelleher is confident in his ability and he is determined to make the most of his opportunity.