West Ham United confirmed on Thursday, 8 August, that Northern Irish youth international, Patrick Kelly, will spend the season on loan with Doncaster Rovers, managed by Grant McCann, as they aim for a playoff push in League Two.
Kelly had been involved in pre-season activities with Julen Lopetegui’s first-team squad, even traveling with them on their tour of the United States. McCann admitted that Doncaster had been monitoring Kelly for some time.
Speaking to the Doncaster Rovers’ website, McCann expressed his satisfaction in securing Kelly: “We’re thrilled to bring PK on board.
He’s a player we’ve kept an eye on for quite a while, but we had to wait as he’s been with West Ham’s first team throughout pre-season.
“Kelly can play either as a six or eight in our midfield, much like Matty Craig. He’s shown his quality at the U21 level with Northern Ireland and has even been invited to train with the senior national team.
“What stands out about him is his composure on the ball and his ability to play an all-action style—he can press, recover, and beat opponents, which is crucial for us.”
With Lopetegui having bolstered the first team with experienced players, West Ham United can now focus on the development of their younger talent.
Kelly, who gained valuable experience during pre-season, is set to benefit more from competitive football in League Two, compared to further youth-level play.
McCann and Doncaster have a strong track record of nurturing young players, making this loan an excellent opportunity for Kelly to develop. Participating in a playoff chase will be invaluable for his growth as a midfielder.
The hope is that Kelly’s loan spell with Doncaster will be successful, allowing him to return to West Ham in a stronger position to challenge for a spot in Lopetegui’s first team, ideally after helping Doncaster Rovers secure promotion to League One.
