According to a recent report by The Daily Express, Liverpool are set to revive their interest in Bournemouth defender Lloyd Kelly this summer. The same source has also claimed that the Reds’ pursuit of the versatile Englishman will be aided by the Cherries’ relegation from the Premier League with Jurgen Klopp hoping to launch a fresh offer for the player during the summer transfer period.
Kelly’s Injury-Ravaged Season For Bournemouth
The 21-year-old has endured a frustrating debut season at the Vitality Stadium after missing out on several games due to a ligament injury and later, a hamstring problem. However, since the Premier League’s restart last month, Kelly has managed to make nine appearances for the Cherries, picking up two yellow cards in the process. However, he is yet to score or assist a goal for his current employers.
On the defensive end, the Bristol-born talent has averaged 0.9 tackles, 0.8 interceptions and 1.9 clearances per game in the Premier League. He has also been quite tidy with his ball-distribution as evidenced by his pass completion rate of 80.1% of his attempted passes in league football (stats via whoscored).
Kelly has also represented England at various youth levels, but is yet to make a senior appearance for the Three Lions. Maybe a summer switch to Anfield could be an opportunity for him to shine at the highest level next season so that he can earn a place in Gareth Southgate’s squad for next year’s UEFA European Championship finals.
What Will The English Defensive Ace Offer On The Pitch?
Kelly can use his quickness to make some lung-bursting recovering sprints at the back. He is usually quick to sense out the danger and can pull off a few crucial interceptions and last-ditch clearances for his side. The English youngster takes care of the ball quite well when in possession of it and doesn’t mind whipping in some inviting crosses into the opposition box when operating as a left-back.
Is Kelly The Right Choice For The Reds?
Kelly’s incredible versatility to play as a centre-back or as a left-back, coupled with strength to win headers inside his half, make him a decent choice for the Merseyside giants ahead of the new season. He will not only add more pace and variety to Jurgen Klopp’s defence, but also enhance the overall depth of his squad.
Furthermore, the English defender will provide some much-needed competition for the likes of Joe Gomez and Joel Matip for a place alongside Virgil Van Dijk at the heart of the Liverpool backline. He will even keep Andrew Robertson in his toes for the right to operate as the left-back at Merseyside in the coming seasons.
