Kelly is unsung hero – boss

ATHLETIC manager Lee Johnson hailed the performance of his captain Liam Kelly and the man who got the four-goal defeat of Coventry up and running, Danny Philliskirk.

The 4-1 win kept Athletic in close contact with the top six in the league - and maintained an unbeaten run that has now stretched to 12 matches.

“Liam Kelly and Danny Philliskirk were absolutely superb,” said Johnson. “Not only for their quality on the ball. “I don't mean to be patronising, but I wonder if the general punter has seen the quality of Kelly.

“Danny Philliskirk's organisation was superb as well as his quality on the ball. The work-rate the boy puts in is phenomenal. It was a very good performance from the whole of the squad, really.

“I couldn't be happier as a manager with that performance in difficult conditions. We are heading in the right direction and it's a good result because it keeps us in touch with the play-offs.”