Republic keeper Kelly dies at 72

Kelly has a stand named after him at Preston's Deepdale

Former Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Alan Kelly senior has died of cancer at the age of 72.

Kelly won 47 Republic caps from 1958 and 1973 and captained the team in a World Cup qualifier in 1972 - he also managed the side for one game in 1980.

He played for Preston North End for 14 years before managing the club from 1983-85 and he coached at Everton and in the United States.

His son Alan Kelly junior is the current Republic goalkeeping coach.

606: DEBATE Alan Kelly was a tremendous servant of Preston. I hope we get the chance to mark our respects at the first home game next season SpitNolan

Kelly made a record 447 League appearances for North End - playing in the 1964 FA Cup final and winning a Third Division championship medal in 1971.

He was forced to retire from the game with a shoulder injury sustained in a match against Bristol City.

He had the Alan Kelly Town End named after him at Preston's stadium Deepdale in 2001 in recognition of his services to the club.

Kelly had another son, Gary, who also played professionally as a goalkeeper, making more than 50 appearances for Newcastle and 200 for Bury and Oldham.