FORMER Walsall, Grimsby Town and Port Vale striker Richard O'Kelly will join Hereford United as physiotherapist/coach at the start of next month.

O'Kelly, 45, started his playing career with Alvechurch before joining Walsall where he made 270 appearances, scoring 90 goals in two spells.

He also played for Port Vale and Grimsby Town, where he was also on the coaching staff. When manager Alan Buckley moved to West Bromwich Albion in 1994 he took O'Kelly with him.

O'Kelly, who lives in Sutton Coldfield, remained as physio and youth team manager until six months ago after Gary Megson was installed as the Baggies' boss. O'Kelly was released and since then has been coaching at Aston Villa's Academy.

United director and company secretary Joan Fennessy said: "We are very pleased that Richard has decided to join us as a couple of Football League clubs were interested in obtaining his services. His considerable coaching and physio experience will be a big asset at Edgar Street."