Former Sheffield United and Leeds United man Paddy Kenny takes first managerial job at ninth-tier side

Sheffield United legend Paddy Kenny has taken his first steps on the managerial ladder after being appointed as part of Northern Counties East League Premier Division side Goole AFC’s new coaching team. The ninth-tier side announced Kenny and Nathan Helliwell as their new joint management team after what they described as “a long day of interviews throughout Monday.”

Kenny, who briefly dabbled in coaching after hanging up his gloves with a spell at Northampton Town, set up a transport business outside of football but is now returning to the game after today’s announcement. Helliwell has previous coaching experience at Armthorpe Welfare, Swallownest and Hallam and he and Kenny will be announcing their backroom team in due course.

A Goole statement read: “Firstly, we would like to thank everyone who applied for the position of first team manager. Due to the high number of applicants, the club committee met over the weekend to evaluate each application and put together a shortlist for interviews.

“Following a long day of interviews throughout Monday, we are now in a position to announce Paddy Kenny and Nathan Helliwell as our new joint management team. Paddy and Nathan will be announcing their backroom team in due course. Please join us in welcoming Paddy and Nathan to the club.”

Posting on social media, Kenny described himself as “really excited” about the new opportunity. Kenny came through the ranks in non-league football before being plucked from Bury by Neil Warnock, who worked closely with the goalkeeper at a number of clubs throughout their respective careers and will no doubt be on hand for advice to 45-year-old Kenny.