Lloyd Kelly – “It’s an exciting time”

Lloyd Kelly has been speaking to Sky Sports during our training camp in Germany, discussing his move to Newcastle United, Eddie Howe, the fans and his plan to play Champions League football on Tyneside.

The 25-year-old joined on a free transfer earlier this summer and discussed his relationship with Howe. “It (Howe) played a part in my decision to come here. It’s nice to know you have a little bit of comfortability with the gaffer and the coaching staff and you know their ideas. But I worked with the gaffer a fair few years ago now and I think he’s adapted his game plan and his philosophy in how he wants to play, so it’s just adjusting to that”

When asked about the club’s high aims for the upcoming season, Kelly revealed his excitement at playing at St James’ Park and his hopes ahead of the 2024/25 season. “Even watching the Champions League games…and not being present in the stadium but watching it on the TV, you can still feel the atmosphere.”

“You can feel how passionate the fans are, and of course that it’s in my mindset to play Champions League football. Hopefully this season we are able to achieve that again. That would be a massive statement for the players and the club as a whole. That’s where everyone’s mindset is at, just finishing as high as possible this season. The Champions League is a big thing.”

With 54 Premier League caps under his belt, Kelly looks to be relishing in the challenge ahead of him. “You see this club and you know the history behind it. You see how big the club is, how passionate the fans are, and of course the direction they’re heading in, it’s an exciting time for everyone involved in the club.”

The former Cherries skipper will bring some versatility to our back line and can hopefully become the next player to take his game to the next level under Howe, whether that be as a left-sided centre-back or left-back.