Goalkeeper Healy makes history as Liverpool win Premier League International Cup

Liverpool followed up their Premier League title triumph by lifting the Premier League International Cup with a penalty shoot-out win over Manchester United in Singapore.

Caoimhin Kelleher was the hero as the Reds triumphed 5-3 on penalties following a goalless draw, with the Republic of Ireland Under-21 international saving spot-kicks from Teden Mengi and Anthony Elanga.

Liverpool handed debuts to Billy Koumetio, Owen Beck and Mateusz Musialowski. The Reds began brightly and almost opened the scoring after three minutes when Musialowski played in Jack Bearne, but his shot was well saved by Nathan Bishop.

Liverpool continued to press and Melkamu Frauendorf curled a brilliant effort wide from 20 yards. United had their moments, with Alejandro Garnacho twice going close, while Noam Emeran forced Kelleher into a good save with a fierce drive from distance.

Musialowski showed some nice touches on the left and Frauendorf stung the palms of Bishop with a low drive. Liverpool almost grabbed a winner late on when Musialowski crossed for Oakley Cannonier, but the young striker headed wide.

Penalties were needed to decide the outcome and Liverpool held their nerve to secure a famous victory. Koumetio, Beck, Frauendorf and Musialowski all scored, while Kelleher saved three of United's five spot-kicks.

"It's a great feeling to win a trophy with this group of players," said Liverpool captain Jake Cain. "We've worked hard all season and we're delighted to have finished it off with a win."

"It was a tough game against a very good Manchester United team," added Liverpool manager Barry Lewtas. "We had to dig deep, but we showed great character and determination to get the win."

The Premier League International Cup is an annual competition for the U23 teams of Premier League clubs. Liverpool have now won the trophy twice, having also triumphed in 2019.