SIGNED - Stephen Kelly

[Gordons Cumming]

I must say I'm completely underwhelmed...................

[SPARTA]

So many keep saying their surprised we bought another right-back, but he can play left-back too. Who's to say this isn't a kick up Shorey's arse, and that we recognise Harte isn't up to it at this level? Perhaps Harte may be off as some rumoured he may be. Who knows, but he's versatile, and both LB and RB need work.

[LoyalRoyalFan]

Fee is £1.3m according to this source.

Pass the Oranges ‏@PasstheOranges

Stephen Kelly cost Reading £1.3m, so the fans cannot complain that money isn't being spent. #readingfc

[Broxroyal]

I don't know what Kelly's recent form has been like, so I don't know if he will be a good signing or not but I will say that I am happy for us to sign a right back who can cover the left side in the event of an injury to Shorey.
I was hoping we might sign Kyle Naughton for that very reason.
Some people won't like me saying it but I would now leave Harte out of the squad.

(Sparta, - I see you have just beat me to it with similar thoughts while I was typing).

[Barry the bird boggler]

On Stephen Kelly's doorstep
Down basingstoke road


Or words to that effect

[Royalclapper]

Fulham fans seem to be ripping us for signing him.

Some silly comments on here.

Kelly never gave less than 100% whenever he played. Towards the end of last season he was one of our most consistent performers, showing more attacking intent and linking up really well with Duff. It's funny how many will say "BH Riise was worth the money for those two crosses in Basel." What about Kelly? Was it it not he who set up Gera's deciding goal?

Always provided decent cover and really cared about the club. Good luck, Mr Kelly.

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Agree absolutely about Kelly... A solid and honest pro with 100pc effort at all times. Wish him success in a continued career.Agree absolutely about Kelly... A solid and honest pro with 100pc effort at all times. Wish him success in a continued career.

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That's slightly disappointing. He has been a good back up. Better than Baird and Hughes. Good luck to him.

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Chris Baird?

Sad to see Kelly go, he's been a top pro.

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Yep. They are all ripping into us.

"Best bit of news i've heard all year!"

"He is a woeful player."

"He also totally ballsed up last seasons Europa campaign by making a suicidal pass upfield from a free kick in stoppage time. But yeh, he always tried but just wasn't good enough when he played this season."

"Only my opinion. I felt he tried hard enough, just didn't possess the physical attributes and mental awareness required. That is the kindest thing I'll ever say about him unfortunately."

But yes, there are some decent ones on their board tbf. I guess they'll be thinking like an established Prem side whereas we're trying to build.

[howser]

He should be clear to make his debut tomorrow then, anyone ??

[Broxroyal]

He should be clear to make his debut tomorrow then, anyone ??

Not according to the official site. Paperwork still needs ratifying. He'll be watching tomorrow.

[Libertine]

He should be clear to make his debut tomorrow then, anyone ??

No, not all the paperwork will be completed in time. He will be there watching and urging his new teammates on...

[jellytot]

Howser the answer is no he will be in the stands

[Mr.T10]

Good signing but still feel the glass is half empty than half full. Better than Harte so thats a plus.

Still waiting for an attacking midfielder which makes it feel half empty... I know its been only 11 days but fullback was not as high on the list as a attacking midfielder.


Lets hope thats our next target.

[howser]

Cheers guys, so he can be in the stand watching with our "major" signing keeping him company, supporting their new team mates.

[paultheroyal]

He will be watching in the stands. Registration did not go through in time.

[Bristol Paul]

Totally underwhelmed at how hard we are trying to stay in this league

[Broxroyal]

Cheers guys, so he can be in the stand watching with our "major" signing keeping him company, supporting their new team mates.

Yes, please keep a look out everyone, to see if it is Wellbeck, Arshavin or Lampard watching in the stand with Kelly.

[RedRum]

Cheers guys, so he can be in the stand watching with our "major" signing keeping him company, supporting their new team mates.

Yes, please keep a look out everyone, to see if it is Wellbeck, Arshavin or Lampard watching in the stand with Kelly.

On a serious note, I'm annoyed that the Chronicle were labelling McD's word as a 'major signing', probably just draw attention to themselves. If everyone wasn't hoping for a 'major' signing then I think more people would be happier with this.

IMO this is a good signing, will help sure up the back 4 as Gunter/Cummings just aren't good enough unfortunately. Also seems like a top lad from his first interview, willing to give Brian 100%

[loyalroyal4life]

it should be shorey and Kelly as respective fullbacks.

Still can't believe Harte being first choice LB. hoping for change tomorrow

[Rex]

Fee is £1.3m according to this source.

Pass the Oranges ‏@PasstheOranges

Stephen Kelly cost Reading £1.3m, so the fans cannot complain that money isn't being spent. #readingfc

Lol at that tweet.

[AirRaidSiren]

im quite happy with this solid signing. i wish him well at our club.

one more signing before the end of the window, please Brian. Ta.

[blythspartan]

Happy with this signing. My Manager is a Fulham season ticket holder and says that if he gets regular football he will be a very good signing for us.

Why are some people underwhelmed? It wasn't that long a go that some of us were worrying that the Karl Sheppard deal might fall through.

A marquee signing would be great but only if they want to play for us and give their all. I am convinced that BM etc. would love to announce that we have signed someone like Arshavin but the player has got to want to come here.