Liam Kelly ‘over the moon’ at Ireland call up

Liam Kelly has expressed his delight at being included in Martin O’Neill’s 39-man provisional squad for the upcoming internationals against Wales and Iceland.

The 21 year old has played for the Ireland u19 and u21 sides in the past, and his fine form for Reading this season has resulted in his first senior call up.

“Over the moon to receive my first call-up. Thanks everyone for the messages so far!” the midfielder wrote on Twitter.

It has been a rapid rise for a player who was on loan at Bath City as recently as February 2016.

The creative midfielder has been with Reading since the age of eight, made his debut for the Royals last August, and scored his first goal for Jaap Stam’s side in January against Bristol City.

The number 10 has added four assists to that goal in 28 appearances this season. He has an eye for a pass, and is excellent on the ball.

Stam is certainly a fan of the Kelly, and described the Irishman’s technique as “world class”.

“Liam is a quality player,” the Reading boss told GetReading.co.uk.

“We’ve seen him throughout the whole season. He is a player who has great skills, he’s very comfortable on the ball and can go past players as well.

“His passing, his technique is world-class — I can say that. You could see it against Leeds and again at Blackburn.”

Kelly was born and raised in England, but qualifies for O’Neill’s side through his Irish grandparents.

The 21 year old has a bright future regardless of whether he makes Martin O’Neill’s final squad.