Liam Kelly: I’m back and better than ever
Liam Kelly said he returns to Livingston as a “much better” keeper.
And he admits the special atmosphere at the club made a reunion an easy choice.
The former Rangers stopper was part of the Livi squad that sealed the League One title in 2016/17 but returns to the club as they prepare for life in the Premiership.
Following that first success he penned a two-year deal with Rangers but failed to feature last term, although he was on the bench on several occasions.
The 22-year-old said his spell on the sidelines ensures he is ready to fight for the number one spot with the Lions.
He said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be back. I can’t wait for the season to start.
“Obviously I was part of the team that won League One and I kept an eye on them last season.
“I don’t think anyone would have expected them to have the season they did but it’s credit to them and they deserved promotion.
“The spirit in the changing room that was there during my season is still there and that’s what got them through.”
He added: “Knowing a lot of the boys was obviously a huge selling point for me. I know how this club works and the environment that I’ll be going into.
“It’s a special changing room and all the lads are great and approachable. It’s not very often you get that in football and to be honest I’m not sure I can see me being involved in a better changing room than this throughout my career.
“The staff give you a platform to go out there and play and they make sure you’re prepared for games.
“The attraction of challenging myself against the top teams in this country made it an easy choice. I really couldn’t be happier to be back.”
The former Scotland under-21 international added: “The aim is to be the number one and I want to challenge myself to be the best goalkeeper that I can be.
“Whoever the challenger is, it’s my job to be better than him and earn my place in the team because I know it wouldn’t just be handed to me.
“I’m a much better goalkeeper than this time two years ago, when I arrived at the club for my loan spell.
“I’ve had lots of great experiences at Rangers, being on the bench for Old Firm games and the top-six games last season.
“There’s pressure, knowing that you might be needed for those type of big games, but also having the confidence of the coaching staff. Knowing that they believe you are capable is a boost.
“Every day training with top players can only make you a better goalkeeper and I believe that I’ve improved.
“I feel that I’m a much better player than I was last time I was here and I’m hoping that I can show that on the park.”