Big matches may have to be played in England

Ireland’s home international football and rugby matches may have to be played in England during construction work at Lansdowne Road, sports chiefs admitted today.

As the formal legal agreement for the €250m redevelopment project was signed, Sports Minister John O’Donoghue said it remained unclear where games would be played during the 29 month building period.

“There is no Irish sports fan who would wish to see international games played outside the jurisdiction,” he said.

“Personally I would like to see Croke Park opened up but that is a matter entirely for the GAA.”

Fran Rooney, chief executive of the Football Association of Ireland (FAI), said every available opportunity would be considered.

He said the FAI had been approached by a number of British clubs but said at this stage, it was important to have options.

“It’s still a long way off – we are looking at the qualifiers for the 2008 European Championships – but I am confident Irish fans will support us anywhere,” he said.