The official reason Lloyd Kelly missed Newcastle United v Hull City

Newcastle United’s recent acquisition, Lloyd Kelly, was notably absent from their pre-season friendly against Hull City on Saturday afternoon. Despite traveling to the Adidas Headquarters in Germany last week, Kelly did not feature in the 3-1 victory over SpVgg Unterhaching in a behind-closed-doors match and was once again rested ahead of the team’s trip to Tokyo on Sunday.

The 25-year-old defender joined Newcastle United this summer following his release from AFC Bournemouth. So far, Kelly stands as the club’s only outfield addition to last season’s first-team squad. Fans are eager to see the new defender in action, but those present at the MKM Stadium and online viewers will have to wait a bit longer.

According to official club sources, Kelly has been training with the first team at Benton during the week.

However, he is still building up his fitness levels and acclimating to his new surroundings. The fitness demands set by Eddie Howe and his coaching staff have required several new signings to undergo a period of adjustment, including Anthony Gordon and Lewis Hall.

While in Germany, Eddie Howe explained the situation: “Lloyd Kelly we’re just being protective over but he’s fit and fine.”

Kelly is expected to feature for Newcastle before the Premier League season kicks off against Southampton on August 17. The Magpies have scheduled matches against Urawa Red Diamonds and Yokohama F. Marinos in Japan, followed by a Sela Weekender double-header against Girona and Brest on August 9 and August 10. These matches will be crucial for Kelly to integrate with the team and demonstrate his capabilities on the field.

Lloyd Kelly’s addition to Newcastle United’s defense brings a significant boost to the team’s backline. Known for his versatility and defensive prowess, Kelly is expected to play a key role in Newcastle’s defensive strategies. His ability to adapt to different defensive positions and his experience in the Premier League will be valuable assets for the Magpies.

The excitement surrounding Kelly’s arrival is palpable among Newcastle United supporters. Fans are optimistic about his potential impact on the team’s performance. Kelly’s presence in the defense is anticipated to strengthen Newcastle’s backline and provide more stability. His performances in pre-season friendlies will be closely watched as he prepares for the competitive matches ahead.

As Kelly continues to build his fitness and adapt to his new environment, it is crucial for him to establish strong chemistry with his teammates. Developing a cohesive defensive unit will be essential for Newcastle United’s success in the upcoming season. Kelly’s ability to communicate and coordinate with fellow defenders will play a significant role in achieving this goal.

Newcastle United has ambitious goals for the upcoming season, aiming to secure a strong position in the Premier League and compete for European qualification. The addition of Lloyd Kelly aligns with these objectives, as the club seeks to bolster its squad with talented and versatile players. Kelly’s contribution to the team will be vital in achieving these ambitions.

Lloyd Kelly’s journey with Newcastle United is just beginning, and fans eagerly await his debut on the field. His fitness preparation and adaptation to the team’s demands are crucial steps in ensuring he is ready for the challenges ahead.

As the pre-season progresses, Kelly’s integration into the squad will be closely monitored, with high expectations for his impact on Newcastle United’s defense. The upcoming matches in Japan and the Sela Weekender will provide valuable opportunities for Kelly to showcase his skills and establish himself as a key player for the Magpies in the 2023-2024 season.