FAI pay tribute to former President Michael Hyland

TRIBUTE: Former President of the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) Michael Hyland has passed away. Picture: Ray McManus/Sportsfile

Former President of the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) Michael Hyland has passed away.

He was a former President of the Athletic Union League (AUL) in Dublin. Hyland was a prominent figure in junior football and he led the construction of the AUL Sports Complex which was proved to be hugely influential in Irish football.

Hyland was elected FAI Vice President in 1990 and went on to serve as FAI President until 1994. He also served as Chairman of the League of Ireland for a seven year period. He represented the Association in Fifa and Uefa serving on numerous committees and gave many years to the development of football in Ireland.

In a statement that FAI remembered Hyland for his dedication to the association. FAI President Paul Cooke said  "On behalf of the Football Association of Ireland, I'd like to pay respect to our former President Michael Hyland and extend our sympathies to his family and friends following his passing.

"A dedicated football man, Michael's contributions to Irish football helped to make a positive difference, particularly within the League of Ireland where he served as Chairman, and he will be fondly remembered as a result. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis."