Deal or No Deal - Kelly Offer on the Table

Jol has reported that he is on the point of offering Stephen Kell a new contract. The exact terms of the deal are unclear - is only one year or longer term ?

http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2012/05/05/fulham-star-offered-new-deal-82029-30903735/?

 

He's been playing for his future since January and in my opinion has deserved an extension. I have my doubts about him, but there's one thing you can't doubt and that's good performances. Which Kelly has had a few of since the New Year.

 

solid back-up to Grygera or a new right back

 

Indeed. It would be good to have both.

 

Kelly's been good for us ... give him a new contract.

 

Definitely deserves a new contract. Just because he's Irish.

 

I've been impressed with Kelly this season. In previous years he's been an uncomplaining bench-sitter who has always done his best when he's been asked to come on (or start occasionally). This season, with an extended run in the team, he's come into his own and turned in som e really good performances. He's not the best right back in the world but he certainly deserves an extension and to fight for his place once Grygera is fit.

Fulhamireland, do you think we'll see him at the Euros?

 

Oh without doubt he will be starting at the Euros. Himself and Duffer will be playing all three games. Kelly is by far our best full back and has even captained us before.

 

Thanks, Fulhamireland. Looking forward to seeing him play, and Duff of course and the other Euro Fulhamites.

Will be good to have some football to watch between now and August.

 

Kelly was excellent last Sunday and been playing well... Deserves a new contract

 

Grygera is not being offered an extension to his contract, certainly not for now. Indeed it sounds as though his future at the club is doubtful -

http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2012/05/10/fulham-boss-ponders-grygera-deal-82029-30939921/

All the more reason to offer Mr Kelly a new deal.

 

“He can play left-back, right-back or centre-back, but it's not a minor injury. It isn't easy to come back to full fitness if you're that age.”

This is my opinion also. If he was a few years younger there would be no question of offering him a new deal, but a long term injury into your 30's is risky. An injury like his at his age is a killer. I'd offer him a one year deal on a pay as you play maybe.