Former Leeds United coach Rob Kelly has revealed Roy Hodgson's role in his decision to take the job as number two to Uwe Rosler at Swedish giants Malmo.
Kelly, who worked as an assistant to Rosler during the German’s tenure at Elland Road, has now followed his former boss to Malmo.
The 53-year-old was working as deputy to Ryan Lowe at Bury in League Two and did not think twice when presented with the opportunity to link-up with his former boss.
Kelly, who was a youth team coach during Hodgson's time as Blackburn Rovers manager, revealed that the Englishman always spoke highly of Malmo and that gave him confidence to make the switch to Sweden.
Hodgson was in charge of Malmo between 1985 and 1989 as he clocked up vital managerial experience.
"Of course I'm happy and excited”, Kelly told Malmo’s official website.
“There was no hesitation when the opportunity came up to work for such a big club.
“I worked as a youth coach at Blackburn during the time Roy Hodgson was the head coach and he always spoke well about Malmo.
“I look forward to the challenge and I’m already longing to get started.”
The former Leeds assistant also thanked Bury for understanding his situation and letting him pursue his ambitions when the opportunity came knocking for him.
“At the same time, I am grateful to Bury who released me when this chance came”, he continued.
“They were disappointed, but were understanding when I explained that MFF were interested in my services.”
Malmo finished in third place in the Swedish top flight this year, but are still involved in the Europa League and play Chelsea in the last 32.
