David Unsworth has called in Alan Kelly to help him take temporary charge of the Everton first team – but quipped he may be in trouble with the goalkeeping coach’s family after interrupting their holiday in Ireland.
Kelly was visiting the country he represented 34 times as a player when he received the call from Unsworth late on Monday, giving him just enough time to board the last flight to Liverpool and arrive in time for Tuesday’s training session at USM Finch Farm.
The pair know each other well from their time together on the backroom staff at Preston North End, where Unsworth was first-team coach and Kelly worked with the Lilywhites’ goalkeepers.
Former Everton players John Ebbrell and Duncan Ferguson will also assist Unsworth as he prepares the team for Wednesday’s trip to Chelsea.
“I managed to bring in Alan as goalkeeping coach last night,” said Unsworth. “He did great and got the last flight over from Ireland. I interrupted a family holiday so I apologise to them for that!