JONATHAN Woodgate said Cherries defender Lloyd Kelly had an “elegance about him” as he may be called upon at centre-back during the coming weeks.

The England under-21 international was called into action after just five minutes of the Dorset club’s goalless draw with Nottingham Forest on Saturday.

Kelly had featured at left-back during Cherries’ first game under caretaker boss Woodgate but replaced the injured Steve Cook in the heart of the defence at the City Ground, after he picked up a groin problem.

Chris Mepham had been left out of the squad after taking a kick in training the day before, Cherries also lost Jack Simpson as a centre-back option during the transfer window.

But Woodgate was happy with the bond formed between Kelly and Spurs loanee Cameron Carter-Vickers against Forest.

Asked about Bristol-born Kelly, Woodgate told the Daily Echo: “He wants to learn.

“He has got it to his bow where he can play left-back as well.

“He wants to learn, he’s keen and I thought him and Cam built a good partnership.”

Woodgate played at centre-back for the likes of Leeds, Tottenham, Newcastle and Real Madrid during his illustrious playing career, as well as winning eight caps for England.

Asked whether Kelly reminded him of any defenders in particular, the temporary manager replied: “He’s 22 years old. He’s got loads of time to come, loads of time to learn.

“He’s got a bit of elegance about him, hasn’t he? He can play. He’s quick. He needs to improve in certain areas of his game.

“I don’t like to compare different defenders to different defenders but he’s a good player.”