Shelbourne and Bohs in ground share talks
An FAI spokesman said that as a natural follow-on from the publication of the recent Genesis report on the future of the eircom League, discussions have taken place between representatives of Bohemians and Shelbourne about a possible ground share. Recent speculation has suggested the northside clubs could share a ground at a redeveloped Dalymount Park which would be co-funded by Government and the sale of Shelbourne’s Tolka Park.
It is believed a similar arrangement is on the cards south of the River Liffey, with St Patrick’s Athletic and Shamrock Rovers suggested as co-tenants of the new stadium in Tallaght. This partnership would also be partly funded by Government and the sale of St Pat’s’ Richmond Park in Inchicore.
Meanwhile, UCD boss Pete Mahon has praised Republic of Ireland U21 manager Don Givens for picking five eircom League players for the Madeira tournament on February 14.
“I am particularly pleased that there will be two College lads in the 20 man panel - goalkeeper Darren Quigley and midfielder Gary Dicker. The same goes for Drogheda midfielder Stephen Bradley, Cork City winger Roy O’Donovan and Bohemians striker Stephen Ward.
“It is deserved recognition for the clubs and the eircom League. They will enjoy playing alongside the likes of Celtic’s Aiden McGeady and the Manchester City pair of Stephen Ireland and Willo Flood for the games against Madeira, Finland and Portugal.” Mahon is hoping that commonsense will prevail at tomorrow’s League AGM in Limerick when there will be moves to amalgamate League operations with the FAI.
“There is a suggestion that there will be no promotion and relegation between the Premier Division and the First Division next season. I don’t see the logic of that - it sounds crazy.”
* Pascal Vaudequin, the Frenchman who resigned as manager of Irish Premier League club Institute in November, has been appointed assistant manager of Finn Harps.
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