Young Celtic midfielder Daniel Kelly has emerged as a regular member of Brendan Rodgers’ first team over the past few months, making several substitute appearances.
The teenager found the top corner in some style against Dundee at the end of last month and has done himself proud whenever he’s played.
Rodgers confirmed that Celtic are in talks with Kelly over a new long-term deal; the boyhood fan’s current contract is due to expire at the end of 2024.
Having been with the club since he was a child, the academy star has worked his way up through the ranks and was once a ball-boy at Parkhead.
In a recent interview, Kelly picked out a Glasgow Derby that was particularly memorable for him when he was pitchside: “The main one was the 2-1 at home against Rangers”, he said (Celtic FC on YouTube).
“James Forrest scored the winner, I’m sure it was, but I was behind the goal that day – it was mental.”
At just 18, Kelly still has a long way to go. With the first team, though, he is gaining vital experience and regularly training with top-class players every day will only benefit him.
The midfielder himself revealed that Gavin Strachan particularly helps him, and his development will only continue as long as he is regularly involved at Lennoxtown.
