Alex Neil outlines hunt for new PNE 'keeper coach after Alan Kelly's departure

The Deepdale stalwart left suddenly on Thursday having taken the decision to end his long association with the club.

The 48-year-old had been North End's full-time keeper coach since April 2013 but his link with the Lilywhites goes back all of his life.

His dad Alan was a PNE legend, making 513 appearances in the goalkeeper's jersey in a 14-year stay and was later manager and assistant manager - the Town End at Deepdale is named in his honour.

Kelly started his playing career with North End and made 142 appearances for his home-town club before being sold to Sheffield United in 1992.

Neil says he does not have a replacement in mind with a recruitment process now underway.

“It came as a bit of a surprise," said the North End boss.

"I think Alan made a decision that he wanted a fresh start and a change.

“We move on and now need to get someone in that role.

“We’ll go through the right and proper interview process, there will be an advert for the job going out.

“I did the same at Norwich – everyone who came for the roles got a proper interview.”

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