Kelly takes charge of Emirates Cup clash

IRISH referee Alan Kelly takes a break from eircom League of Ireland duties this weekend to take charge of the Emirates Cup meeting between Real Madrid and FC Hamburg at the Emirates Stadium, London, on Saturday.

The Corkman is no stranger to the tournament — last year he was whistleblower for the clash of Inter Milan and Valencia. Kelly will also be fourth official for the closing match between Arsenal and Real Madrid on Sunday.

“I’m thrilled to get the call to go back again this year,” said Kelly. “The Emirates is a fantastic stadium and it is a great experience to be involved in matches with some of the top players in the world.

“It is a friendly tournament, but the games are played with a competitive edge. Players are getting themselves ready for the new season and there are also some younger players trying to make names for themselves. It is a prestigious tournament, as can be seen by the calibre of club taking part in it.”

Last season the Corkman became the first Irishman in 25 years to be appointed to a Round of 32 UEFA Cup match when he took charge of the meeting of FC Hamburg and FC Zurich.