I think he has to stay and get some gametime. He is clearly ready to be a part of the 25 man squad.
Depending what happens with Kelly could have a large baring on how our youth see their future here.
If Kelly stays and establishes himself as one of our midfield rotation, then it sends a massive message to the young players. Go out develop, impress and take your chance and we'll give you a shot.
If we block Kelly's pathway and send him out on another loan, then it sends the opposite message. Due to Brexit English clubs will be targeting Scottish youngsters more than ever before. If we aren't showing a pathway, then many of our promising players might think twice about deals with us. Why sign a new deal here, when you could get more than double in England and get the same level of opportunity.
I know people will point to Patterson but if we are being honest, he is a bit of an anomaly. He's over 6" foot and rapid, genetically he was always in with a chance. Kelly on the other hand is the opposite a slight technical player, who's worked his way up the loans and has impressed when given a chance in preseason.