Derry chief exits in ‘dual contract’ row
The events unfolded while a delegation of nine Derry players were meeting FAI Chief Executive John Delaney, League Director Fran Gavin and PFAI Chief Stephen McGuinness at the Association’s Abbotstown headquarters.
There they attempted to unravel the ‘dual contracts’ mystery at the club which last Saturday led to the expulsion of the Candystripes from the League of Ireland.
An FAI statement last night read: The FAI confirmed that following a meeting in Abbotstown, the players of Derry City Football Club have put on public record the fact that they had signed two contracts, the standard player’s contract and a separate contract on club headed paper.
“As of today, the FAI has accepted these players’ assurances that they were not personally aware of any financial irregularities at the club.
“The FAI has also confirmed that it intends to send a delegation to Derry, on Thursday, with a view to beginning the process of returning the club to stability, now that the club chairman has accepted his untenable position.”
Elsewhere, Cork City chairman Tom Coughlan has vowed to make major changes in the running of the club, as the curtain falls on a traumatic season for the Leesiders – and is unconcerned by the potential loss of top players.
A protracted legal battle with the Revenue Commissioner saw the Turner’s Cross outfit go to the brink of extinction this season and the owner insists a fresh approach is needed to avoid any repeat.
“We are looking at all aspects of how we run the club. Wages is a big part of this and they need to change and be brought in line with what we can afford,” he says.
“That may mean part-time football for some, it may mean new contracts for others and some player may just leave as a result.
“I have to do what’s right now for the club, even if it means losing a few players who decide not to accept our new wage offers, but so be it.
“I will sit down with Paul Doolin in the next day or so. I have to do this for a number of reasons, firstly we are running at a loss.
Derry chief exits in dual contract row
“SECONDLY, our budget needs to reflect what income we have coming into the club.
“Paul will be made aware of our plans. There will be changes to the way we currently operate.
The scars of a turbulent year – Coughlan’s first full season at the helm – have prompted the Corkman to vow he won’t endure the same experience next term
“We cannot afford another season like this one. I have a few months now to get this right and I plan to startimmediately by sitting down with the manager and informing him of our plans, that will ensure we have a sustainable and viable club going forward. John Delaney will be meeting with the club this week and we want to have a plan for next week to show him. We will be appointing a new general manager in the next few days as well and he will be responsible for ensuring we operate within our new budget,” he added.
Elsewhere, St Patrick’s Athletic yesterday announced the resignation of their chief executive Richard Sadlier.
Former Ireland international Sadlier said: “This decision was not an easy one. While the role has been very challenging, I have to say I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time as CEO.”
Meanwhile, former Irish international Richard Sadlier has resigned as chief executive of St Patrick’s Ath, while Kildare Co have resigned from the league after finishing bottom of the First Division.
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