Liam Kelly Joins Feyenoord On Permanent Deal

The Irishman’s time at Reading has come to an end.

Liam Kelly has joined Feyenoord on a permanent deal, ending his career-long association with Reading. The Irishman has opted to link up with former manager Jaap Stam - the man who gave him his break at the Madejski Stadium - in a bid to revive his career. Although the transfer fee hasn’t been revealed officially, it’s not believed to be that large.

Despite not being one of the eight reportedly transfer-listed players in Reading’s squad (including Chris Gunter, Sam Baldock and others), the writing has been on the wall for Kelly for some time now. His form deteriorated badly after a breakthrough 2016/17 season, and he was eventually left out of contention completely by Jose Gomes for the final section of last season.

This permanent switch to a team with a manager that believes in him - and in a league more suited to his abilities tactically - should hopefully be a good move for him.

From Reading’s point of view though, this is good business. Kelly wasn’t likely to be a regular started next season, especially having been frozen out of the first-team setup by Jose Gomes after the hammering at Sheffield United last season.

Getting rid of his wages - which could be fairly hefty considering his last contract came under Ron Gourlay - is therefore a positive step. It also allows Reading to add another player to the squad.

Nonetheless, we wish him the best of luck for his time in the Netherlands.