Defender, Kaine Kelser Hayden has joined Coventry from Aston Villa for an undisclosed fee.
Kesler Hayden spent the last three seasons loaned out to Huddersfield, Plymouth and Preston North End, but has now made a permanent move into the second tier with his move to Coventry on a four-year contract until June 2029.
The 22-year-old full-back is “absolutely buzzing” to make his “perfect move” as he embarks on a new chapter in his career with the Sky Blues, who lost to eventual playoff winners, Sunderland in the play-off semi-finals last season.
“Words can’t describe how happy I am to be at this club and how excited I am to play in front of the supporters. I want to show you what I can do, how I can play, entertain you and hopefully get this club back where it needs to be.”
Kelser Hayden also spoke about Head Coach, Frank Lampard being a huge factor in his move as he praised the ex England midfielder for his vision.
“I’ve spoken with the Gaffer. He was a big part of why I signed. I believe in the project, and he showed me some videos and analysis of how I can fit into the team and for me that made it seem like the perfect place for me to come.”
Lampard added that he is “delighted” to sign Kesler Hayden who he believes has the qualities to fit his style of play heading into the new season.
“His qualities will fit in with the way we want to play, he is a young player and his defensive and attacking attributes will help to strengthen the squad.”
Coventry begin their 2025-25 Championship season at home to Hull City on Saturday 9 August at 12:30pm BST, live on Sky Sports + in the UK.
Kesler Hayden began his career at Villa where he made five appearances amidst initial loan spells at Swindon and MK Dons, where he scored one goal for each club in 2021-22 season and likewise at Huddersfield the following season.
He went on to make 27 appearances on loan at Plymouth in the first half of 2023-24 season before he was recalled and joined Villa’s first-team in which he made four of his five total appearances for the Villains.
Last season saw Kesler Hayden move to Preston on loan in a successful campaign which saw him score twice in 51 appearances for the Lilywhites, during which they lost to Villa in the FA Cup Quarter-Finals at Deepdale.
