HITC Sport understands Reading star has agreed new deal.
Liam Kelly of Reading and Oliver Norwood of Brighton in action
Reading have rewarded midfield star Liam Kelly with a new deal, HITC Sport understands from sources close to the club
Kelly enjoyed a memorable breakthrough season at Reading last term, establishing himself as a key member of Jaap Stam’s first-team.
The 21-year-old, who has come through the ranks at Reading, made his first-team debut last August and he went on to make 36 appearances for the Royals as they reached the Championship play-off final, only to lose on penalties to Huddersfield Town.
Kelly was rewarded for his progress at the Madejski Stadium with a new deal in December to keep him at the club until 2019 and he has become a big fan favourite at the club.
Arsenal’s Mohamed Elneny in action with Reading’s Liam Kelly
The midfield schemer, who has represented Republic of Ireland at Under-19 and Under-21 level, won his first call-up to the senior squad earlier this year and he is tipped to become a regular for Martin O’Neill’s side in the coming years.
Stam is a big admirer of Kelly and has likened him to Barcelona and Spain star Andries Iniesta because of his energy and creativity.
Kelly’s performances for Reading have brought him to the attention of several Premier League clubs and the Royals have moved to fend off any potential interest by agreeing a new three-year deal with the midfielder.
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