Lloyd Kelly is the latest addition to the Newcastle United backline.
After five impressive years on the south-coast with AFC Bournemouth, Lloyd Kelly has linked back up with his former boss Eddie Howe at Newcastle United.
Originally signed by Howe during his time at Bournemouth, Kelly has joined up with the Magpies on a free transfer, putting pen to paper on a five-year-deal.
Quick, versatile and not afraid of tackle – many believe Kelly may become a fan favourite at St James’ Park, with that being said here is everything you need to know about the defender.
Lloyd Kelly birthplace and age
Lloyd Kelly was born in Bristol, England, but also comes from Jamaican descent.
Kelly is 25-years-old having been born on 6 October, 1998.
Lloyd Kelly family
At the age of seven, Kelly was separated from his mother and would go on to spend the next eleven years in foster care alongside his siblings.
Having to live in three different foster homes as a youngster, Kelly told BBC Sport: “It wasn’t easy. Being taken away from your mum, once that happens you have to grow up quickly.”
After signing a professional contract with boyhood club Bristol City, Kelly would eventually leave foster care at 18. Kelly admitted though he still keeps in contact with his most recent foster carer, Thelma.
“What she did for the three of us is extraordinary.
“She took us in, treated us as her own and still does. She has a son and daughter who are grown up and we see them as family as well.
“When I was at Bristol City, Thelma came to every game she could with her son and daughter. They were there to support me.”
Lloyd Kelly height
Kelly stands at 6ft 2 inches tall (1.9 metres), which makes an aerial threat at both ends of the pitch.
Lloyd Kelly position
Kelly’s preferred position is centre-back but he can also deputise at left-back due to being him left-footed.
What is Lloyd Kelly’s style of play?
A front-foot defender, Kelly’s quick pace makes him very efficient at making recovery runs and last-ditch challenges. The Englishman’s pace also means he is very comfortable at playing a highline which is something we may see Newcastle introduce in years to come.
Kelly is also calm on the ball, regularly able to make cross field passes and switches of play.
The 25-year-old will ultimately provide the Newcastle backline with some much needed depth and competition.
Is Lloyd Kelly fast?
Kelly is one of the quickest defenders in the Premier League, ranking as the 8th quickest defender in the league during the 2022/23 season – according to Opta data published by Squawka.
What clubs were interested in Lloyd Kelly?
Kelly reportedly rejected the advances of multiple top European clubs to join the Magpies, with Italian giants Juventus being one of the clubs who held an interest in the Englishman – according to TalkSport.
Lloyd Kelly wage and contract
Signing on free transfer, Kelly’s Bournemouth wage has reportedly been tripled since joining Newcastle, with the defender expected to now be earning over £100,000 per week – according to Football Insider.
Lloyd Kelly squad number
Following his move to Newcastle, Kelly will wear the number 25 shirt. A number which has previously been wore by the likes of Philippe Albert and Andros Townsend.
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