Hoops given green light to play Europe games in Tallaght

Shamrock Rovers have been given the all-clear to play their home games at the Tallaght Stadium for the group stages of the Europa League.

Michael O'Neill's side can now look forward to the prospect of playing host to Tottenham at their home ground.

The club have been rewarded for moving quickly to install the temporary seating and necessary infrastructure to comply with UEFA regulations.

Following an inspection of the ground by UEFA officials on Tuesday, the association has today given the Hoops the green light to stage all their home games at the Tallaght venue.

The first game will take place on Thursday, September 15 against Rubin Kazan, with a 6pm kick-off.

Hoops chairman, Jonathan Roche expressed the club’s delight at the news. He said: “It is wonderful news for us as a club, but also for the Tallaght area. We were pushing hard to have the games played at Tallaght, and are delighted that UEFA have given us the go-ahead.

“We are very grateful to the FAI - particularly chief executive, John Delaney and the licencing department – and to South Dublin County Council, for the great support and assistance they have given us to be able to have these games in Tallaght.”

John Delaney, Chief Executive of the FAI also welcomed the news, saying: “We are delighted to have been able to assist in this process and thank UEFA for this decision which will allow Shamrock Rovers to play their Europa League fixtures at their home venue.”