Lloyd Kelly joined Juventus from Newcastle United in the winter transfer window.
He arrived at the Italian club on an initial loan with the obligation to buy, having been a squad player at St James’ Park in the first few months of the season.
Support for the defender has now arrived from former teammate Eros Pisano, who shared the dressing room with Kelly during their time together at Bristol City.
Pisano spoke to TuttoSport about the ex-Newcastle United centre-back and described Kelly as a humble character who took everyone by surprise as a youngster.
“It was a surprise for everyone. He would take to the field calmly and never hold back, even though it was his first season as a starter in the Championship.
“He always listened to everyone. An attentive, diligent, humble guy with his head on his shoulders. We spent a lot of time together but he wasn’t a big talker. A shy, reserved type.”
Pisano believes the 26-year-old will have to work very hard following his Newcastle United exit.
“If he has arrived at Juventus it means he deserves it. Of course, he will have to work twice as hard as he has already done so far. You have to earn that shirt every single day.”
He also offered support to his former teammate, saying:
“We’ll see what impact he’ll have with Juventus: making his debut at the stadium is anything but easy. The pressure can play nasty tricks on you. Now that he’s arrived in Italy, if he needs support, I’ll be there.”
The move to Turin will be a huge challenge for Kelly, who was a back-up at Newcastle United.
He played only 301 minutes in the Premier League for Eddie Howe’s side this season, playing only four minutes in his last five games for the club.
