Walsall hero David ‘Ned’ Kelly has finally returned home and taken up the position as assistant manager following the departure of Richard O’Kelly to Bristol City.
Ned has always been speculated to become assistant to Ray Graydon, Paul Merson or most recently Chris Hutchings and had also been speculated to return as manager however things didnt come to fruition.
David Kelly doesnt need any introduction to the Walsall faithful, having started his career here. Following his 5 year spell with the Saddlers in the early 80’s Ned scored 63 goals in 147 appearances and has always been regarded as a Walsall legend.
He was the clubs top scorer in 1986/87 with 26 League and Cup goals, and again the following year when he notched 30 goals in all competitions. West Ham United paid £600,000 for his services in 1988. Ned went onto play for Leicester, Newcastle, Wolves, Sunderland, Tranmere and Sheffield United. During his career Ned scored 194 goals in 606 games. Ned also accumulated over £3m in transfer fees, making him one of the most succesful players to come through the ranks here at The Banks’s Stadium.
Obviously great former players dont make great coaches, as we have found out recently. ‘Ned’ however has a great coaching pedigree. He has followed Billy Davies to most clubs including Sheffield United, Preston, Derby and more recently Nottingham Forest.
It remains to be seen whether David Kelly will follow Billy Davies to his next job, however for the moment lets just live the dream that one of our heroes has returned.
Welcome home Ned.
What are your views fellow Saddlers on this great news?
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