Newcastle United summer signing delivers 22-word message after being unveiled in front of almost 40,000 fans
Newcastle United unveiled Lloyd Kelly in Tokyo for the first time since his free transfer from AFC Bournemouth last month.
The 25-year-old missed Newcastle’s opening three pre-season friendly matches as he worked on his fitness but started Saturday’s 2-0 defeat to Yokohama F. Marinos in front of 38,201 spectators at the Japan National Stadium. Kelly played the opening 45 minutes in the match before a planned substitution at half-time.
Following his non-competitive debut and the trip to Tokyo, Kelly took to Instagram to post images of himself in action at the J-League International Series with the caption: “Appreciate the hospitality and support throughout! A good feeling to put on this shirt for the first time, still work to do 🙏🏾”.
The former Bournemouth and Bristol City defender started the match alongside Fabian Schar, who was also making his first pre-season appearance following international duty with Switzerland at Euro 2024.
Kelly displayed his distribution during the match with a long ball out from the back to create an opportunity for Alexander Isak. He also made some good interceptions but there was still some pre-season rustiness evident as he struggled to contain Yokohama’s pace in attack.
Kelly was shown a yellow card for a last-man challenge which may have been scrutinised further by VAR had it been in the Premier League.
Reflecting on Kelly’s first outing for the club, head coach Eddie Howe said: “I thought he did well. Composed debut. I was pleased for him.