Former teammate explains why Kelly ‘deserved’ Juventus move from Newcastle | OneFootball

Eros Pisano, a former teammate of Llyod Kelly at Bristol City, says he was ‘impressed’ by the Englishman’s physicality and versatility, even in the early stages of his career: ‘If he made it to Juventus, it means that he deserves it.’

Kelly joined Juventus on loan with an obligation to buy from Newcastle on the deadline day.

A long-time Juventus target, the Bianconeri were interested in Kelly even a few months ago, when the defender joined Newcastle on a free transfer at the end of his contract with Bournemouth.

The England international spent a few years at Bristol City alongside Italian defender Pisano, who is now the Lumezzane captain in Serie C.

Former teammate explains why Kelly ‘deserved’ Juventus move from Newcastle

Lloyd Kelly of Newcastle United arrives at the stadium prior to the Premier League match between Newcastle United FC and Southampton FC at St James’ Park on August 17, 2024 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

“I shared the locker room with him at Bristol for a couple of years,” Pisano told Tuttosport.

“He was a surprise for everyone. He stepped onto the pitch calmly, always giving his all, even though it was his first season as a starter in the Championship. He always listened to everyone, never acted arrogant, and put hard work first.

“He is a focused, diligent, humble guy with his feet on the ground,” continued the 37-year-old.

“We spent a lot of time together, but he wasn’t pretty shy. I remember he always smiled: when it was time to joke around, he knew how to play along.”

What did impress him the most about Kelly?

“Despite his young age, I was impressed by how physically developed he already was,” Pisano replied.

“He always showed versatility; whether he played as a full-back or centre-back, it made little difference, though I would have liked to see him in a three-man defence. He was very strong technically and had a good pace. Left-footed players naturally have the advantage of being more unpredictable.”

Juventus coach Thiago Motta spoke about Kelly during a press conference on Thursday, saying that the ex-Newcastle defender can join Chelsea loanee Renato Veiga in central defence at Juventus.

“He has a good left foot to distribute the ball to his teammates,” continued Pisano. We’ll see what impact he has at Juventus. Making a debut at the Stadium is anything but easy, and the pressure can play tricks on you.

“He’ll have a coach, a staff, and a group that will help him settle in. Maybe I’d tell him to shut himself in a bubble, isolate himself, and not think that all eyes will be on him. If he made it to Juventus, it means he deserves it. Of course, he’ll have to work twice as hard as he has so far. That jersey has to be earned every single day.”