FAI chief Delaney fears for safety after 'personal' media reports

Football Association of Ireland chief executive John Delaney fears for the safety of his staff after recent media coverage he claims could incite trouble.

Delaney, the FAI and Republic of Ireland boss Steve Staunton were severely criticised following the last-gasp and embarrassing 2-1 win over Europe's worst team in San Marino earlier this month.

Supporters at the Euro 2008 qualifier at the Serravalle Stadium demanded Delaney quit, with the aftermath resulting in a number of news articles he insists have become personal.

This follows an incident in December when a man entered the FAI's headquarters at Merrion Square in Dublin with a petrol can in one hand and a lighter in the other, threatening to set himself on fire in protest at Dundalk's failure to reach the eircom League Premier Division.

Speaking to the Irish Sunday Mirror, Delaney said: "Some of the media are acting in a way that's inappropriate.

"Some of the things I've heard from the media is incitement and that's something they should consider. I think certain aspects of the media have brought coverage onto a personal basis and my fear is someone will get very badly hurt soon."

"This will happen if people don't take stock and be accountable for what they write - I think there's a lack of accountability. It is only a game; it's only football. Yes it's a very important part of our lives, but it is about two teams going out playing football."