Irish International
When Kelly began his international career in 1931 there were, in effect, two Ireland teams, chosen by two rival associations. Both associations, the Northern Ireland - based IFA and the Irish Free State - based FAI claimed jurisdiction over the whole of Ireland and selected players from the whole island. As a result several notable Irish players from this era, including Kelly, played for both teams. In 1936 Kelly had the unique experience of playing for two winning Irish teams within a week. On 11 March he helped the IFA XI beat Wales 3-2. Then on 17 March he was on the winning side again as the FAI XI defeated Switzerland 1-0.
Read more about this topic: Jimmy Kelly (Irish Footballer)
Famous quotes containing the word irish:
“Irish Americans are about as Irish as black Americans are African.”
—Bob Geldof (b. 1954)