Martin Kelly has had a taste of the big time and is hungry for more.
The 19-year-old academy graduate from Whiston, who made his senior debut against PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League last season, is relishing being part of Rafa Benitez’s squad during pre-season.
The defender went on the Reds’ Far East tour and got his chance to shine with 45 minutes against Thailand and half an hour against Singapore.
“I was really happy to be out there and spend time around all the big names,” he said.
“The training was great and the game time was a real bonus. The speed of the game is so much quicker in the first team compared to the reserves.
“I enjoyed the experience and hopefully now I can get some more matches under my belt.
“It’s a squad game these days so if there are any injuries I have to ensure I’m ready to be called upon.
“First team chances don’t come around too often but when they do I need to ensure I take them.”
Kelly graduated to Melwood in the summer of 2007 and can play at centre-back or full-back.
He helped the reserves win the title in 2007/08 and had a spell on loan at Huddersfield Town last season.
But he returned determined to make his mark at Anfield and has been learning fast from experienced clubmate Jamie Carragher.
“The lads have been great to me on and off the pitch,” he added.
“Carra has been a big help. Obviously he plays in my position and in training he has been talking with me about the things I need to work on.
“There are a few jokers in the side like Pepe (Reina) and Albert (Riera). But when it comes to training everyone gets down to work seriously and the vibe around the team is great.”
The 19-year-old academy graduate from Whiston, who made his senior debut against PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League last season, is relishing being part of Rafa Benitez’s squad during pre-season.
The defender went on the Reds’ Far East tour and got his chance to shine with 45 minutes against Thailand and half an hour against Singapore.
“I was really happy to be out there and spend time around all the big names,” he said.
“The training was great and the game time was a real bonus. The speed of the game is so much quicker in the first team compared to the reserves.
“I enjoyed the experience and hopefully now I can get some more matches under my belt.
“It’s a squad game these days so if there are any injuries I have to ensure I’m ready to be called upon.
“First team chances don’t come around too often but when they do I need to ensure I take them.”
Kelly graduated to Melwood in the summer of 2007 and can play at centre-back or full-back.
He helped the reserves win the title in 2007/08 and had a spell on loan at Huddersfield Town last season.
But he returned determined to make his mark at Anfield and has been learning fast from experienced clubmate Jamie Carragher.
“The lads have been great to me on and off the pitch,” he added.
“Carra has been a big help. Obviously he plays in my position and in training he has been talking with me about the things I need to work on.
“There are a few jokers in the side like Pepe (Reina) and Albert (Riera). But when it comes to training everyone gets down to work seriously and the vibe around the team is great.”
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