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Ireland goalkeeping coach Alan Kelly sits out Bulgaria game over health concerns

Republic of Ireland goalkeeping coach Alan Kelly has not travelled with the squad for the trainin...



Ireland goalkeeping coach Alan...
Soccer

Ireland goalkeeping coach Alan Kelly sits out Bulgaria game over health concerns

Republic of Ireland goalkeeping coach Alan Kelly has not travelled with the squad for the training camp ahead of Wednesday's Nations League game against Bulgaria in Dublin. 

The 52-year-old, who was capped 34 times as a player by his country, is asthmatic and confirmed this evening that he would be sitting out the preparations for this week's match.

“I opted to stay behind and return home when the team flew to Dublin on Monday," Kelly told the FAI's official website. "This is a personal decision as I am asthmatic.

“This is a very trying time for everyone in football during the pandemic and I have had to take this decision with my own health in mind.

“I want to wish Stephen Kenny, his players and staff the very best of luck for Wednesday night against Bulgaria.”

Earlier Matt Doherty and James McClean were ruled out of the game after contracting COVID-19. Manager Stephen Kenny is also planning without John Egan, Enda Stevens, James McCarthy, Harry Arter, Jeff Hendrick, Jayson Molumby, Callum Robinson, Aaron Connolly, Adam Idah and captain Seamus Coleman.

 

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Alan Kelly Republic Of Ireland