Jamie Carragher has questioned why Jurgen Klopp is selecting Caoimhin Kelleher ahead of Alisson Becker for Sunday's Carabao Cup final, insisting that Liverpool should be going full-strength against Chelsea in every position.
As is the case with many other clubs, the Reds have a track record of resting their first-choice keeper in the League Cup and instead allow back-up options to assume responsibility.
Alisson has only featured once in this competition since arriving from Roma in 2018, with his semi-final first leg appearance versus Arsenal in January only arising to improve his match rhythm having been sidelined due to contracting COVID-19.
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Kelleher retained his position for the return fixture at the Emirates and will start this weekend's showpiece fixture at Wembley, Klopp has confirmed.
This is a decision Carragher cannot get his head around as he debated why different rules apply for goalkeepers regarding squad selection.
"I will never understand the theory behind selecting a second-choice goalkeeper in a major final," he wrote in his Telegraph column
"Liverpool will play Caoimhin Kelleher ahead of Alisson Becker. Chelsea will do likewise if - as expected - Kepa Arrizabalaga starts ahead of Edouard Mendy.
"It is nothing against those players. The Spanish keeper is a world-record signing for a No. 1 and Kelleher has done well when called upon, playing a big part in Liverpool getting to Wembley. It is more the principle of leaving a world-class keeper on the bench I struggle with, especially in a final where small details make all the difference. This cup final logic only seems to apply to keepers.
"In the early rounds of the cups, plenty of youngsters and back-up players get their chance, but they realise they will be stepping aside if Wembley beckons. That’s why Liverpool's Kaide Gordon played in the semi-final, but may not even make the bench this weekend. Why is it any different for back-up keepers? As a fan travelling to Wembley, I would always be more comfortable knowing the best XI is starting."
Providing his view on how proceedings are likely to play out, Carragher added: "There is very little between the teams. Liverpool just edge it in overall quality - as the current league table suggests - but in a one-off final it will be no surprise if the game goes to extra-time or penalties.
"Another key weapon Liverpool possess is their set-piece threat. They have been the best in the country this season and scored from another corner in midweek. In a tight game, it would be no surprise if that proves to be the difference."
