Hoops host Derry in relegation battle

Shamrock Rovers players will have to put their dispute with the club on hold to focus on the job of beating Derry City in what is sure to be a tense relegation battle at Richmond Park tonight (7.00).

The Hoops players refused to train on Tuesday night and issued a statement through their union, the PFAI, threatening increased industrial action over what they claim is a non-payment of outstanding wages.

They returned to training last night as they had promised in order to prepare for tonight’s game, but then saw Rovers chairman Tony Maguire hit back with an official statement of his own, refuting allegations that the board had reneged on an agreement to pay the outstanding wages by October 1.

Maguire said: “SRFC are disappointed that in a statement issued by the PFAI, it is claimed that the board of SRFC have dishonoured an agreement. SRFC wish to refute this allegation.

”The agreement referred to relates to a commitment by SRFC to pay outstanding monies due to the players within four weeks of concluding a deal with our stadium investor. Unfortunately, the deal has not been concluded as of yet. The club fully accepts that these monies are due and is totally committed to honouring its obligations.

”The club is anxious to meet the players and their PFAI representatives and have offered to meet on two occasions. These offers have not been taken up as of yet. We will pursue this over the coming days. It is imperative that we meet the players as it’s only through negotiation that we can resolve the problem.”

How the dispute will affect the players is the main question facing stand-in manager Noel Synott, who at least welcomes back defender Jason McGuinness and striker Trevor Molloy following one-match suspensions.

While Rovers have lost seven of their last eight games, Derry will have been boosted by their Monday night win over table toppers and champions Shelbourne.

Manager Stephen Kenny could go with an unchanged team as left back Sean Hargan is still out injured.