Kelly's international delight

Stephen Kelly is delighted to be involved in Steve Staunton's first Irish squad.

Tottenham defender Stephen Kelly is delighted to be involved in Steve Staunton's first Republic of Ireland squad.

Things may not have gone too well for the youngster at White Hart Lane, as he was seeking a move away from the club in order to obtain first team football in January, but the chance to impress at international level excites him.

"The fact I've been named in his first team gives you a big boost," he told Sky Sports News.

"You know it's his first squad, you're in it and you know you're part of his plans, so it's just a fantastic feeling to have."

Kelly feels it is the right move to bring Sir Bobby Robson in to work alongside the inexperienced Staunton.

"Someone like that, his experience in the game, I'm sure him and Steve come up well together," explained the Irish full back.

"I don't think the fact that he's not been in the managerial hot-seat that long is going to affect him."