High Praise! Reading Boss Jaap Stam Hails Irish Starlet as 'World Class'
Once regarded as the best defender in the world, Jaap Stam has been ringing the endorsements for his own players with young midfielder Liam Kelly the latest to catch the eye.
After a Man of the Match display against Blackburn at the weekend, "?Stam heralded Kelly's technique and passing ability as world class.
Kelly, who has represented the Republic of Ireland at both U19 and U21 level, was making just his third league start for the Royals against Blackburn.
His Man of the Match performance did not surprise Stam, who noticed his talent as soon as he arrived at the club in the summer.
The Dutch manager is hopeful for a continuation of the same level of performance produced at the weekend and he is confident the midfielder will showcase his talent throughout the campaign.
"Liam is a quality player,"? said Stam.
"We've seen him throughout the whole season. He is a player who has great skills, he's very comfortable on the ball and can go past players as well.
"His passing, his technique is world class - I can say that. You could see it against Leeds and again against Blackburn."
Kelly has been deputising for the suspended Danny Williams in the last two games, with the American available again against Norwich on Boxing Day.
Stam insists Kelly has proved his worth as a confident ballplayer and will have a big part to play during the second half of the season, even if he is dropped for the festive fixture.
"Liam's a player who can bring something extra to the team,"? said Reading's manager. "With his passing but also in keeping the ball. He's not the biggest but he's quite strong on the ball and can turn away from players. If you can do that then suddenly you can create a two on one or three on two situation.
"That gives the opposition a decision to make and it makes it easier for you to play."?
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