Dundalk allay fears over Oriel Park

Dundalk have sought to address what they term the “distress” being experienced by of supporters, players and sponsors following a report that, owing to a dispute with the club’s former owner, the league champions and cup holders might have to play their home games away from Oriel Park this season.

In order to obtain a Premier Division license, Dundalk need to be able to guarantee Oriel Park as their home ground for the season ahead but a dispute over the lease with former owner Gerry Matthews – who also claims he is owed money by the club – has led to speculation they might have to play elsewhere this season, with United Park in Drogheda cited as one possibility.

While insisting yesterday a claim they owe money to Mr Matthews is “completely false,” Dundalk acknowledged the lease on the ground is an issue. In a statement, the club said: “The fact we do not possess the lease is preventing Dundalk FC from investing in stadium infrastructure but, in our view, does not prevent us applying for a Premier Licence in the same manner as in previous years.”