Kelly switches focus

TEAMWORK . . . Darren Kelly (left) and assistant manager Dean Holden.

FOLLOWING the signing of two exciting attack-minded players, new Athletic boss Darren Kelly is focusing hard on his defensive unit.

Attention has shifted towards a goalkeeper and centre-backs in particular and Kelly has made several inquiries for likely prospects.

But Kelly admits it is likely to be well into next week before squad additions are confirmed: “We’ve made some noises, but there are lots of quality defenders and goalkeepers out there,” he said.

Though he has only been in his new role for less than two months, Kelly has been hugely impressed by the enthusiasm and support of his “heroic” backroom squad.

At 35 and with little Football League experience, Northern Irishman Kelly was a shock appointment to permanently replace Lee Johnson. Though highly qualified, his lack of senior management experience was an issue for some Athletic supporters. But Kelly appears to be settling into what must have been a daunting task with the help of his backroom staff.

“Everyone around me has been great, and that has helped me to settle in,” he said. “Dean Holden and I are getting on really well and I’m excited at the prospect of working alongside him. All the team has rallied round this last few weeks; we’ve all worked hard to get to know one another and I’m grateful for that.

“I feel as though there’s a real breath of fresh air sweeping through the club at the moment. I hope the staff and the supporters feel that way too.”

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