Lloyd Kelly has gone from sitting on the Newcastle United bench to playing in the Champions League.
It has been a dramatic couple of weeks for Lloyd Kelly, who left Newcastle United during the January transfer window. He joined Juventus on loan, with the deal set to become permanent in the summer for £20million.
Kelly is handing Newcastle a PSR boost, while he is suddenly representing a European juggernaut. The 26-year-old has made two Juve appearances so far, with fans criticising Kelly’s debut over the weekend.
He made his second appearance on Tuesday night, with Kelly playing the full 90 minutes as Juventus beat PSV Eindhoven 2-1 in the Champions League.
Kelly was arguably at fault for PSV’s goal, turning his back as Ivan Perisic netted an equaliser. After the match, the Italian media harshly rated Kelly’s performance, despite Juventus going on to win.
Joleon Lescott defends Lloyd Kelly after Champions League debut
While his error for the goal was not a good look, former Manchester City defender Joleon Lescott does not believe it tells the whole story of Kelly’s Champions League debut.
Lescott discussed Kelly’s performance on TNT Sports, admitting that he looked ‘composed’ in Europe’s elite competition.
“He probably would have been surprised getting the call from his agent, having not featured much for Newcastle,” he said.
“To go into this stage of the competition [the Champions League] – I think it’s his debut in the competition – he didn’t look out of place. That one moment he would look back on and think he could do better, but overall he looked very composed and assured, and someone that the fans took to.”
Deal was right for Lloyd Kelly and Newcastle United
It will take Kelly a bit of time to get up to speed in a Juventus shirt. After all, he had endured a stop-start few months on Tyneside after his arrival at Newcastle United.
Kelly was in and out of the team initially, before spending more and more time on the bench. No matter who he played for, it would take him time to re-find his rhythm.
But he will hope to do that for Juventus, where he is getting the chance to play in the Champions League. He could have got that opportunity next season at Newcastle if he stayed put, but this move is already proving to be the correct call.
It has given Kelly the chance to play regular football, while Newcastle are going to receive a financial boost that will aid their summer transfer plans.
Newcastle do not have a limitless budget, but Kelly’s permanent exit will massively enhance what was previously a very concerning PSR position.
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