Derry blast FAI 'witch hunt'

Derry City have blasted the FAI's decision to terminate the club's contract with the League of Ireland

describing the hearing at which it was made yesterday as a "witch hunt".

The club has also indicated it may mount a legal challenge to the decision.

The FAI Board of Management yesterday announced the club's effective relegation from the Premier Division following what it termed a failure to comply with the terms and conditions of the contract of participation, with the club allegedly having admitted to holding second illegitimate contracts with players.

The FAI however said efforts were continuing to find a way for the club to participate in the First Division.

However a strongly-worded statement issued early this morning by the Candystripes rejected the findings of the FAI at the hearing held yesterday in Abbotstown.

"The hearing was oppressive and in our view was like a witch hunt," the club said.

The decision "was already predetermined and in our view a hidden agenda exists within the FAI in relation to Derry City Football Club", the statement read.

"We are currently exploring any possibility of any type of appeal procedure within the FAI or via a court of law in Dublin or Belfast."

"We have not been presented with any evidence of any wrongdoing on behalf of the club or any one, or any organisation associated with the club.

"!t is our respectful view that the Board of the FAI should be ashamed of themselves in presiding over a completely unfair process which shows a complete lack of respect to us, our players, manager, staff, club volunteers and fans."