Alan Kelly, Sr.

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For other persons named Alan Kelly, see Alan Kelly (disambiguation).

Alan Kelly (born 5 July 1936 in Dublin), is a former Irish international goalkeeper who started his career at Bray Wanderers. In 1956 he joined Drumcondra, with whom he had won a FAI Cup winners medal in 1957 and a League Championship in 1958. In 1960 he transferred to Preston[1]

He won the first of his 47 Republic of Ireland caps against England in a 1958 World Cup qualifier.

He made his Preston debut on 28 January 1961 in an FA Cup tie against Swansea Town and he became first choice goalkeeper the following season. In total he made a club record 513 appearances over a 14 year period - including the 1964 FA Cup Final defeat by West Ham United.

He was named Preston's first Player of the Year in 1967–68 and won a Third Division championship medal in 1970–71.

A shoulder injury ended his career in 1973 - his final game being against Bristol City on 15 September 1973.

Following his retirement he joined North Ends coaching staff and was promoted to Assistant Manager under Nobby Stiles in 1977.

In 1980 he briefly managed the Republic of Ireland side, presiding over one match against the USA. In 1983 he was appointed manager of Preston North End. Following a bad run of results over the Christmas period he resigned in February 1985.

In 1985–86 his son Alan Kelly Jr. followed in his fathers footsteps when he made his debut in goal for Preston. He later too played for Ireland.

In 2001 the third part of Deepdale's redevelopment was named the Alan Kelly Town End in honour of their former player and manager.

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Preston North End F.C. – Managers

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