Kelly-Evans makes the much anticipated leap up to first team football after an impressive season with City's U21s...
Local lad, Dion Kelly-Evans was the second Academy graduate to make his first team debut in the 2-0 win over Oldham Athletic on Sunday.
Kelly-Evans was a second-half substitute for Andy Rose and made an immediate impact with his energy and drive to get forward down the right flank.
The 19-year old has captained the Sky Blues’ U21s side all season and has been a standout performer for the youth team during their end of season unbeaten run.
“It was a great feeling for myself and my family, been waiting a long time for this opportunity and for the Gaffer to show some faith in me was great. Hopefully I have paid him back with my performance,” Dion said.
“It hit me at half-time when I was told I’m coming on, got in to the changing room and didn’t have much time to think about it which was a good thing. I just wanted to get out there and do my stuff.
“I think I was ready, I’ve spoken to the Gaffer a few times about giving me a chance. He told me to be patient. To come on at 0-0 and go on to win the game 2-0 when I was on the pitch, I felt like I made an impact.”
Kelly-Evans played alongside fellow U21s partner Cian Harries in the victory at Boundary Park and the Coventry-born fullback has also celebrated the week by signing a new contract with the Sky Blues.
He added: “It’s been a really good end to the season, looking now to build for next season. It’s always a positive when you’re playing well for the 21s, it gives you a chance to be noticed.
“I’ll be here next year, and I’m looking forward to next season. Hope that a few more opportunities will arise. My family have got in touch and said how proud they are, I live around the corner from the Ricoh and it’s a dream come true to make my debut for Coventry City.”