This day eleven months ago, Liam Kelly was lining out for Bath City as they met Oxford City in a HUGE clash in the National League South, the sixth tier of English football. Today, he started a game in Old Trafford.
Kelly shone for Reading as they were thrashed by Manchester United. The Royals played quite bad, but Kelly's performance seemed to shine.
It was the end of a pretty good week for the Ireland under-21 international. He was a crucial part to Reading's come from behind victory against Bristol City with a goal and an assist. This came a day after he signed a new contract with Reading, which will keep him at the Madejski stadium until 2019 at the earliest.
Boss Jaap Stam was happy with the signing, saying that Kelly has 'great ability, technique and movement'. He's been chipping in with assists throughout the season so far in the Championship as Stam's side sit third in the table.
He got plenty of praise from Royals and Red Devils alike on social media. A lot of Irish fans got a little bit excited about Kelly's spot in a dream midfield for Russia in 2018.
Liam Kelly looks at home amongst the Premiership players, top talent! #ReadingFC
— Daniel Holloway 🇺🇦 (@RFCdan) January 7, 2017
Liam Kelly has looked quite composed when on ball today. Readings best player today. 🇮🇪 🍀 very tough day for them as United right on song
— Stephen Elliott (@SleevesElliott) January 7, 2017
I am impressed by @ReadingFC player Liam Kelly performance vs @ManUtd. Definitely a player to lookout for the future of the @FAIreland team.
— Christopher Toner (@CHTONES22) January 7, 2017
Being 5ft 5 didn't help him when it came to TV viewers though
Kelly for Reading making me 😂. Looks like Dads vs Kids next to Carrick and Fellaini.
— Claire Kilner (@ClaireKilner89) January 7, 2017
