RONNIE WHELAN was yesterday reinstated as Southend's manager just four days after he was suspended by the club and 24 hours after hearing that he faces an FA misconduct charge.

"We have now had the opportunity of studying the referee's report, looking at the video of the game and discussing the matter with Ronnie," said Southend's vice chairman and chief executive John Adams in a brief statement.

"After due consideration, we have reinstated him and now just want him to get on with the important job of getting us out of trouble."

. Alan Kelly, the former Irish international, has been appointed goalkeeper coach of US Major League champions DC United.

Kelly, who made 47 appearances for Ireland, has lived in the Washington area since 1985, and three years ago was inducted into the FAI's Hall of Fame.