THE NEW stand at Deepdale's Town End is to be called the Alan Kelly Stand after former goalkeeping great.

It is hoped it will be open in time for the televised clash against Manchester City on October 21.

Chief executive Tony Scholes said: "There have been many players down the years whom the fans have taken to their hearts. We wanted to name the new Town End after someone who was not only a great player but someone who had North End in their blood."

The new stand will hold 6,100 people and the seating pattern which will depict Alan's face.

Alan joined North End from Irish club Drumcondra in 1958 and went on to make 512 appearances for the club in his 17 year spell at Deepdale. He was a Republic of Ireland international and played a record 47 times for his country. When he retired from playing he worked on the administrative side at Deepdale before becoming a coach and assistant to Nobby Stiles during his spell in charge. In 1983, he managed the first-team for a short spell.