Former Chelsea, Fulham and Newcastle United midfielder Damien Duff has spoken out after signing Reading FC youngster Kian Leavy for Shelbourne.
The young midfielder has agreed a loan deal with the League of Ireland side until the end of his Royals contract - June 2023.
Boss Duff said he was looking forward to working with the 20-year-old, who has two League Cup appearances to his name with Reading.
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"I am really excited to start working with Kian," said Duff. "He has tremendous ability, a big heart and can play many positions. I admire that he has left his comfort zone to come and test himself in a very tough league. He is another great addition to the squad.”
Shelbourne's league campaign begins at the end of next week at home to Drogheda United, a match in which Leavy will be hoping to make his debut. And in an interview with the club website, he hinted his stay could be longer than just until the end of June.
"It’s a great opportunity for my development to come to Shelbourne and the way of playing will really suit my game," said Leavy. "Speaking to Damien (Duff) and the staff it has been really exciting so I’m looking forward to the year ahead.
"From watching the club last season the talent in the squad is huge and I’m looking forward to joining up with the lads and bringing success to Shels this year."
Leavy joins fellow Reading academy players Jokull Andresson (Stevenage), Jahmari Clarke (Forest Green Rovers), Ben Purcell (Farnborough), Ethan Burnett (Havant and Waterlooville), Jeriel Dorsett (Kilmarnock), David Nyarko and Nahum Melvin-Lambert (both Weymouth) out on loan.
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