Blow to youths as Kee quits

Last updated : 23 May 2003 By Al Woodcock
Paul Kee
Kee: Resigned for personal reasons
United youth development officer Paul Kee has quit the club for personal reasons.

Kee came over from Northern Ireland early in the season to take charge of the youth scheme and came with a very good reputation from his time in Ireland with Institute FC.

However Kee has failed to settle in Carlisle and has reluctantly decided to return home.

Manager Roddy Collins explained: "He's resigned. It was probably the wrong time for him and he found having to move a strain. He has a new baby and has only just lost his father. He could not give the job 100 per cent and was not feeling comfortable. He did the honourable thing and resigned."

However the Cumbrians boss paid tribute to Kee's contribution during his short spell at Brunton Park.

"He has had a big impact here. He set up the structure and we will build on the progress he has made," he said.

United hope to replace Kee before the pre-season training sessions resume in July.

United hot on the trail of two more

United are hoping to bring Northern Ireland international Danny Sonner to Brunton Park next season.

Sonner who is 27, has played seven times for his country and appeared for Ipswich, Birmingham and Walsall during his career. Walsall had to let him go towards the end of the season in a cost-cutting measure.

Sonner was part of the Birmingham squad that won promotion to the Premiership in season 2001-02.

The Cumbrians have also held talks with the Leyton Orient frontman Lee Thorpe.

Thorpe had a successful spell with Lincoln City in the late 90s before switching to the Matchroom Stadium outfit at the start of last season. He scored nine times in 41 starts for the Londoners and Roddy Collins he can do a job for United, holding the ball up and acting as a target man.

Season ticket discounts up for grabs

Discounts of up to 40% are available on season tickets for next season, if purchased before June 13.

United have cut the basic cost of admission for Under-16s and Over-65s to just £5 per match. Savings can be achieved by buying a season ticket.

The cost of match admission for Adults goes up across the board by £1. However if season tickets are bought before June 13 they can be snapped up at last season's prices.

To secure your season ticket for next season contact the ticket office on 01228 526237.

Picture from News & Star

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