'We didn’t give Colin any absolute guarantees' - Healy claims denied by FAI Director of Football Canham

FAI Director of Football Marc Canham. Pic: Laszlo Geczo/Inpho

Director of Football Marc Canham has denied claims by Colin Healy that he’d been assured of a contract extension by the FAI before being relieved of his duties.

Healy was let go alongside manager Eileen Gleeson following their defeat to Wales in the Euro playoff.

“We didn’t give Colin any absolute guarantees,” said Canham.

“There were two games left and it was always based on how the games against Wales would go.

“All of my conversations were confidential and I don’t plan to change now.

“It’s not my style to share those details. It’s not in my control that some parts of those conversations were made public.

“The non-renewal decision was made based on a review consistent throughout with other teams.

“The staff were involved in that review, it was transparent and a decision was made after assessment.” 

David Courell also spoke at the unveiling of Gleeson’s successor Carla Ward, countering Healy’s claim that the CEO was of the opinion he’d left rather than been relieved of duties.

He said: “It’s a misunderstanding from Colin. The belief I had was that Colin had a genuine opportunity (as Cobh Ramblers manager).”