Boss Kelly committed to Scarborough Athletic after links to Northern Ireland role

Former Oldham Athletic and Halifax Town boss Kelly had been linked with the role in the Irish media recently and admits he had spoken with the Irish FA regards the position - but insists it was always a no-go as it would conflict with his current schedule and role with Boro.

Gerard Lyttle has since been appointed into the role by the Irish FA.

“I’ve spoken with them about the role, but it didn’t take long to work out I wouldn’t be going any further in the process,” said Kelly.

“During that conversation it quickly emerged that there would be more of a time commitment than I thought so it would mean missing a lot more Scarborough Athletic games than I hoped.

“I have made a commitment to Scarborough Athletic and I’ve made it clear from the outset that I would only apply for the role if I could make it work alongside my current position.

“It was an honour to have my name linked to a role like this as I am a proud Irishman, but I have made a commitment to Scarborough and I intend to see that through.

“We have started to build something at the club and I want to stay as long as possible to push Scarborough on to where I believe it can be.”

Kelly starts his new role working at the University of Coventry’s Scarborough Campus next week and admits he can’t wait to get stuck into his new role.

“It was quite strange how it all came about as I was offered this new role just hours after speaking to the Northern Irish FA,” added Kelly.

“This is a new challenge for me and one I can’t wait to get stuck into.”