Kelly confirmed as City boss

Leicester City have, as expected confirmed that Rob Kelly has been appointed manager of the club until the end of the season.

Mike Stowell has been named as his assistant. The appointments were announced at a Press Conference called at the Walkers Stadium at 4-00 this afternoon.

Kelly has been in charge for four games, winning the three League games in that group. He will now be boss for the last 13 games of the season.

He will also be given money to appoint a senior assistant of his choice.

On learning of the decision, club skipper Paddy McCarthy said: 'We spoke as players to the chairman Tim Davies to put our views forward in private and are very happy with the decision and are looking forward to working with Rob Kelly for the long term.'

Kelly himself said 'I am flattered after being handed the reins but I will quickly get over those selfish thoughts''

'I am delighted to have been given the opportunity, particularly at a club like this, but you quickly get past that.

'The decision now allows everyone to settle down and focus on what is really important - and that's the next 13 games. "Our game against Derby tomorrow night is all that is occupying my mind now".

When asked how long it took him to accept the job Kelly said 'not very long'. 'It is quite humbling and exciting. The challenge is to retain our Championship status is the most important thing now".

'The players have been terrific in difficult circumstances'. Strangely, he said 'this has bonded us together.'

Asked about a possible assistant Kelly said, 'It is not something I would discount but the thing we can deal with next is Derby County so no-one will be coming in before then,' he laughed, 'and let's see where it takes us after that.'

As for what he had done to change things during his time as caretaker, he added 'maybe we've just relieved the pressure and tension.'

Mick Stowell, who was at the club as a youngster quickly focused on the job in hand and said: "The most important thing now is to get as many points as we can.

"We will only have a nice summer break if we are still in this division."

Chief Executive Officer Tim Davies confirmed that at no time during their search for a manager did the board offer the position to anyone else.

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