Clarke: Kelly can play centre-back

Martin Kelly has all the attributes to play at centre-back in the future, according to first-team coach Steve Clarke.

The Reds have no plans to move the 21-year-old from the right side of defence, where his performances have helped him become an England U21 regular.

However, Clarke would not be surprised if Kelly one day returned to the central position he regularly played during his years at the Academy.

"When you look at the size and shape of Martin, he's built like a central defender," said the Scot. "He's been fantastic at right-back and we've got no plans to move him from there at the moment but if he continues to develop and he gets an opportunity at centre-half then I'm sure he's got the attributes to make it a good position for him.