Martin O’Neill under fire over ‘sexist’ remark

Ireland manager Martin O’Neill landed himself in hot water at a press conference in the Aviva Stadium yesterday with an ill-judged attempt at humour.

Asked if he would follow the example of Wales manager Chris Coleman in banning players’ wives and girlfriends from the team base at this summer’s European Championship Finals in France , the Ireland manager replied: “Well, it depends on how good looking the girls are.

“If they are really attractive, they’re very, very welcome. The uglier ones, I’m afraid not.”

O’Neill’s remarks, which also provoked criticism on social media, were described as sexist by the director of the National Women’s Council of Ireland.

“There is no place for sexist comments of this nature in Irish football, particularly at this level,” said Orla O’Connor.

“Interest and participation in soccer among girls and young women is growing in Ireland, and the Euros should be used as an opportunity to increase these participation levels, not for comments such as these.” she said.