STEPHEN KENNY reckons everyone will be Keena to see Mason Melia in action in his best position tonight against Shelbourne.
The 17-year-old is the League of Ireland’s hottest property as he plays his final season at home before a €2 million move to Tottenham Hotspur and has already impressed this year.
But he will get a chance in his preferred centre forward position this evening as top scorer Aidan Keena misses the second game running with a hamstring injury.
And Kenny believes it is where Melia is at his best even though he has adapted and played in a deep lying striking role for most of this season.
Kenny said: “He’s hungry. He was frustrated when he was out injured. He came in, didn’t have a full pre season, and he came on in a few games.
“He started in the 10 against Derry and did very well. He went away with the (Ireland) Under-21s. He came on and got his goal here (against Bohemians) which was terrific.
“He got another goal with the Under-21s, got one against Bohemians, and he’s playing as a number nine which is his best position last week (against Waterford).
“He just loves playing football. He is passionate and hungry and just wants to enjoy his football.”
Kenny also insisted that the spotlight on Melia has not had an impact at all.
He said: “He’s not overawed by it. He is just taking it in his stride, he lives in Newtown in Wicklow and has a family there to protect him in that regard.
“He’s a man now, he’s only 17 but he carries himself as a man, he is a strong boy and wants to make his mark in life.
“Football is his vehicle for that. He’s very talented and loves playing football. He just wants to be on the pitch.”
