NEIL WARNOCK has praised defender Martin Kelly ahead of Crystal Palace's clash with Chelsea this weekend.
The 24-year-old has made six appearances since joining the Eagles from Liverpool in the summer, and featured in the last game before the international break - a 2-0 defeat at Hull City.
And the Palace boss says he has been pleased with how Kelly has adapted to life at Selhurst Park and what he offers to the team.
"I thought Martin Kelly did well when he went in there against Hull City but we have a decent squad and we will have to use it over the next few months," said Warnock.
"I feel Martin had earned his place really over others, and he did me a favour in my first game at Newcastle playing at left-back.
"So I wanted to give him an opportunity to see what he could do in the team and I've been pleased with him."
Palace welcome league leaders Chelsea to Selhurst Park on Saturday.
