Patrick Kelly to become top player after what he did away from West Ham United

Grant McCann has backed Patrick Kelly to become a "top player" after the West Ham United loanee starred for Doncaster Rovers in the FA Cup.

Kelly netted a late winner for Doncaster in their 1-0 win against Barrow in the first round of the cup on Saturday (2 November) after coming on as a second-half substitute.

The 20-year-old got on the end of a cut-back from Harry Clifton and sent the Barrow goalkeeper the wrong way to grab his first senior goal.

Speaking after the game, McCann said it was only a matter of time before Kelly got on the scoresheet and added that he has a big future ahead of him.

"A really, really good goal. Lovely ball from Harry [Clifton] and a great finish from PK [Patrick Kelly]", McCann said, via YouTube (2 November).

"He's been threatening to do that, he's had so many opportunities over recent weeks.

"I'm really pleased for him because the kid is going to be a very, very good player and a top player."

West Ham United gem Patrick Kelly ready for big future

McCann is not the only one who thinks Kelly has a big future ahead of him as West Ham awarded him a new contract earlier this year.

The Northern Ireland Under-21s international put pen to paper on a two-and-a-half-year contract and is tied to the Hammers until 2026.

Kelly is now continuing his development on loan at Doncaster, learning the trade from former midfielder McCann.

The 20-year-old has made 14 appearances in all competitions for the League Two side and, having netted his first senior goal, will be keen to add more to his tally in the coming weeks.

It is worth noting that the Hammers roped in Kelly from Coleraine in 2022 and he could soon become a shrewd signing if he continues progressing like he is doing now.

It will also not be a surprise to see the youngster called up to the Northern Ireland national team soon.

In other West Ham news, the Irons have made a £30million bid for this player as they look to sign a striker in January.

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