‘I want to adapt’ - Newcastle United outcast vows to fight on as £20m fee faces criticism
Thiago Motta believes Lloyd Kelly will come good following an underwhelming debut for Juventus.
Offloaded by Newcastle United a week ago, the 26-year-old joined the Serie A giants on loan until the end of the season but will make a permanent switch this summer. Toon chiefs agreed a £20million sale - a figure that has received praise from supporters.
Kelly arrived on a free transfer just seven months earlier and made only a handful of appearances before being sold for a profit. The versatile defender had not started a Premier League game since November.
He now aims to forge a new career in Italy but endured a poor start on Friday. Kelly came on at half-time and the local media were far from impressed as Juve edged out Como 1907, winning 2-1 in the 89th minute.
Juventus boss Thiago Motta admitted Kelly did not shine but backed him - and his vocal chords - to succeed in Turin. He said: “Lloyd, very good. First of all, he is a fantastic singer (proven by his initiation). He is a shy boy, he came in the right way. Physically he is very good.
“He can play as a central defender and also as a full-back. I saw him with great confidence. He suffered some fouls, but just like all the others who arrived.”
Kelly acknowledged adapting to Italian football remains a challenge but one he is prepared for after leaving St James’ Park. He added: “It’s a quick transition. I just want to adapt to the football, to the playing style, to the way he (Motta) wants to play, the way he wants his players to play for this club.
“There will be many conversations to have. I’m excited. It’s going to be different and I’m going to have to adapt quickly, but I’m looking forward to the challenge, it’s something I’ll put my heart into. I’m sure we will be able to strive for good things for my time here.”