Celtic loanee Johnny Kenny has made quite the impression since extending his loan spell at Shamrock Rovers.
The Republic of Ireland Under-21 international has been on an excellent scoring run in the League of Ireland, helping to keep his side’s very slim hopes of the title alive.
Kenny has been hailed for his ‘maturity’ by boss Stephen Bradley as he continues to shine out on loan; however, was tasked over the last week to raise his level in the first round of Champions League qualifying.
Last week, a 0-0 draw away to Vikingur Reykjavik ensured Shamrock Rovers would have a chance to defeat the Icelandic outfit on home soil to progress to the second round, which, in turn, guarantees a minimum of a Europa Conference League play-off match as a worst case scenario.
Rovers progressed in dramatic fashion courtesy of a last-minute missed penalty that granted them a 2-1 victory on the night with 10 men, with Kenny proving to be the difference.
Johnny Kenny at the double for Shamrock Rovers
Kenny scored a clinical brace for Shamrock Rovers against Vikingur, helping them race into a two-goal lead that just about edged them over the line at Tallaght Stadium.
His first strike was an excellent one, as he latched on to a through ball from Dylan Watts before cutting inside onto his weaker side and slamming home into the near post, sending the home support into raptures, as can be seen below.
Watts and Kenny linked up again for the decisive goal, as the striker took in his pass following some intelligent approach play. Carrying the ball into the area, he then found the visiting goalkeeper off-guard at his near post to double the Hoops’ advantage on home soil.
Showing his appetite for the big occasion, Kenny’s brace has propelled Shamrock Rovers into the second qualifying round of the Champions League, where a clash against the might of Sparta Prague awaits for Ireland’s most successful club.
Stephen Bradley on Johnny Kenny
Bradley must be thanking his lucky stars for Kenny’s dependability in crucial moments, and he offered the forward some high praise following his exploits on an evening where Shamrock Rovers prevailed on the European stage.
He stated post-match [Balls.ie]: “Johnny Kenny, right now, is the best forward in the country by a mile. He had to learn a lot last year but everything has been pointing towards the season he’s having.”
Now up to ten goals in 24 appearances this term, Kenny is a bright young forward who shouldn’t be counted out by Celtic after finding a platform to show his natural talents [Transfermarkt].
With his contract at Parkhead expiring in 2026, it will be interesting to see if Brendan Rodgers has any future plans for the 21-year-old.
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