FORMER York City defender Darren Kelly has admitted that Sky Bet League One Oldham Athletic have taken a “massive risk” in appointing him as their new first-team manager.

Kelly left City’s academy earlier this year to take up a role within the youth ranks at Premier League club Sunderland. But he has been installed as the new boss at Boundary Park with previous caretaker chief Dean Holden now becoming Kelly’s assistant.

The 35-year-old Irishman, who holds a UEFA Pro Licence, insisted: “I will take this club forward. I can understand supporters’ frustration but every expert had to start somewhere.

"If I didn’t think I could do a good job, I wouldn’t be here. It’s a massive challenge and I am a massive risk, but I will have a creative style of play and we will play attractive football. I want to meet the fans, put myself into the lion’s den and prove that I am worthy of this job role.”

On the decision to give Kelly his first opportunity in management, Oldham chairman Simon Corney added: “From the moment we first met Darren, he impressed the board with his infectious enthusiasm, undoubted drive, energy and confidence in his ability to deliver success for our football club.

“Darren is a natural leader and the plans he has for our club fill me with confidence for our future success.”