Lukas Kelly-Heald

Lukas Kelly-Heald joined the men for the start of pre-season training in July after signing a landmark four-year deal with the Wellington Phoenix.

The 1.98m tall defender, who is comfortable playing as a left-sided centre back or fullback, is a born and bred Wellingtonian. He played his junior football at Island Bay United and spent one season at North Wellington before joining the Phoenix academy at the start of 2021.

Kelly-Heald made his debut for the reserves in August 2021 before becoming a regular in Chris Greenacre’s starting XI the following year.

His performances earned him selection in the New Zealand squad for the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship in Tahiti. Despite being one of the youngest players in the group he started four of New Zealand’s six matches, including the semi-final and final, playing 90 minutes each time.

At the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Argentina, Kelly-Heald established himself as a key member of the starting XI in Argentina and missed just one of New Zealand’s four matches when he was rested.

He was a regular in the Phoenix lineup in his first pro season, starting 18 games and featuring in another five from the bench.

Mainly playing at left back, but deputising occasionally at centre back, he was the youngest defender in the A-League to be a regular starter.

As well as his defensive responsibilities, he managed to provide two assists.

Kelly-Heald’s breakout season led to a maiden international call up, featuring for the All Whites during their successful OFC Nations Cup campaign. He then represented New Zealand at the Paris Olympics, playing in all three of the OlyWhites’ games.

His twin brother Alby is one of the first team’s goalkeepers.

> 2024-25 season

Lukas Kelly-Heald missed the start of the season with injury and didn’t make his first A-League appearance until round nine.

Kelly-Heald went on to feature a further 15 times, making 11 starts.

He showcased his versatility, often playing as a central midfielder.

Kelly-Heald headed to Chile in June to represent the New Zealand U-20 side in two friendlies in preparation for the FIFA U-20 World Cup later in the year.