Earlier this season, Liverpool’s defensive record was exceptional, conceding only two goals in their first seven Premier League matches.

However, their solidity at the back has deteriorated in recent weeks.

From their clean sheet against Manchester City on December 1 to the game against Nottingham Forest on Tuesday, the Reds allowed 11 goals in just six league matches. This includes conceding three goals each against Newcastle and Tottenham, and two against Manchester United.

While Liverpool’s attack is often potent enough to secure victories, their rising goals-against tally is a growing concern.

One factor has been Alisson Becker’s dip in form. Despite a stellar performance against Girona in the Champions League, the Brazilian No. 1 has struggled to maintain consistency.

Counting Chris Wood’s first-half goal for Forest, Alisson has conceded nine of the last 15 shots he faced in the Premier League—a stark contrast to the high standards he’s set as a former FIFA Best Goalkeeper award winner.

Whether it’s lingering injuries or a lack of sharpness, it’s clear that Alisson needs to regain his form quickly if Liverpool’s title hopes are to stay on track.

Do Liverpool need to replace Alisson?

Waiting in the wings is Caoimhin Kelleher, who a lot of Liverpool fans thought was hard done by when he was dropped the minute Alisson was back fit.

Kelleher had performed superbly between the sticks during Alisson’s run on the sidelines, featuring in big, important wins against the likes of Real Madrid and Manchester City. There was however a mistake late on in the league game at Newcastle.

Aside from that, Alisson was barely missed through his injury-enforced absence even if Arne Slot has always made it clear that the South American is his No1.

But when does that come up for consideration?

At some stage Slot is going to have to decide if Alisson is in the lineup based on form or reputation. And it was the latter that got him straight back into the team.

A parting of the ways seems inevitable with Kelleher, who wants to be a No1 in his own right and who Liverpool would like to earn some money on.

Next summer Giorgi Mamardashvili arrives at Anfield and the Georgian has made it clear he is not coming to play second fiddle.

It could be possible that Liverpool opt to cash in on Alisson as well – with Saudi teams interested – or else let him leave for a return to Brazil.

His form had better pick up and fast or else it could end up with Mamardashvili displacing him as No1 should he remain. That’s if Kelleher doesn’t get there first.