Career
Kettle began his career with Liverpool, signing professional forms in 1973. He was to remain at Anfield for seven years, but could never rise above reserve level He could never break into the first-team, however, only making four appearances before departing in 1980.
He then signed for Wigan Athletic, but was released after one year, dropping into non league football with Burscough and Barrow.
He later moved into management, taking charge of South Liverpool, Southport, Stalybridge Celtic and Rhyl. In July 2010 Brian joined AFC Liverpool as assistant reserve team manager.
Southport
After several seasons with South Liverpool, Kettle was appointed manager at Southport, and was instrumental in one of the most successful periods at Haig Avenue. After three seasons the Kettle"s team were showing real promise.
Cup finals and victories in them soon followed, however league performance ultimately suffered finishing 7th, 5th and 7th again.
The 1992-1993 season was one of the most important seasons in the clubs recent history. After a promising first season which saw the club finish fourth and only nine points off champions Kidderminster Harries followed by another a Kettle shocked the town with his resignation in March 1995 citing personal reasons with Billy Ayre appointed to oversee and cement the third-place finish.