Inverness Caley Thistle Women young player of the year Tina Kelly will be "massive miss" as she travels to Australia
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Karen Mason says Tina Kelly will be a big miss for Inverness Caledonian Thistle – but her absence will present an opportunity for others to step up.
The former Fortrose Academy pupil played her last match for the time being last Sunday away at Rossvale last Sunday before going away travelling.
That had been Kelly’s intent at the start of the season, but plans changed and she would return to the Caley Jags for the first half of the campaign.
Having been a constant presence in the starting 11 when available, Kelly will be tough to replace in manager Mason’s eyes.
Kelly had even won the club’s young player of the year award for her performances across the 2021/22 campaign.
However, Mason believes that a spot in the side opening up will give others the chance to shine, and she hopes someone steps up to the challenge.
“There will be spots opening up for other people to come and take,” Mason said.
“TK has been a regular first-team starter for us, so there’s going to be a spot up for grabs for someone.
“We didn’t expect her to be back at all this season until her plans changed.
“She has been absolutely phenomenal for us, and she will be a massive miss.
“Her tenacity and work rate is brilliant – she would run through a brick wall for you. That will make her tough to replace.
“I’m sure someone will be gunning for her spot, though, when she goes. There will be more opportunities coming as well as trying to get the right people in the right places.”
The Caley Jags are back at Millburn Academy this Sunday, hosting Hutchison Vale in the SWF Championship.
