Kelly: Juventus coach Tudor defends ex-Newcastle defender ‘unfair judgment’ | OneFootball

Juventus coach Igor Tudor argues that Lloyd Kelly was subjected to ‘unfair judgment’ before scoring two goals in the last two games: ‘He has to keep going like this.’

Juventus boss Tudor is happy with the contribution of ex-Newcastle defender Kelly and not just because of his latest goals against Inter and Borussia Dortmund.

Tudor defends Kelly

TURIN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 16: Igor Tudor, Head Coach of Juventus, looks on prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Juventus and Borussia Dortmund at Juventus Stadium on September 16, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

“There’s been a lot of unfair judgment from the outside, a lack of objectivity. Since I arrived, he has always done well,” Tudor said at a press conference on Friday via Ilbianconero.com.

“People only said he was playing well after he scored two goals. But he was already putting in great defensive performances despite the small mistakes that everyone makes. Labels aren’t needed. He’s a humble guy, eager to improve. I’m pleased with him; he has to keep going like this.”

Kelly joined Juventus on an initial loan deal with an obligation to buy in the January 2025 transfer window.

The former Newcastle defender had been criticised by part of the Juventus fanbase and media for his performances in the second part of the campaign in Turin.

Kelly’s Juventus stats

TURIN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 16: Lloyd Kelly of Juventus celebrates scoring his team’s fourth goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Juventus and Borussia Dortmund at Juventus Stadium on September 16, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

Kelly had never scored a goal in a top-tier league or in the Champions League before he found the net against Inter in a 4-3 victory in Turin last week.

In the following match, he contributed to the Bianconeri’s 4-4 draw against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League with a late equaliser.

The Englishman has made 23 appearances across all competitions with Juventus.