Football in the summer is not a pipe dream, says McKendry

DISCUSSIONS surrounding the introduction of summer football in Northern Ireland may have struck a few roadblocks but Coleraine chairman Colin McKendry believes it’s not mission impossible.

The Northern Ireland Football League (NIFL) have been consulting clubs on any possible seasonal change but opinion throughout Danske Bank Premiership clubs and their supporters is varied.

Finding a compromise agreement that will satisfy the majority of top flight clubs is an unenviable task, particularly when we know at least two sides — Glenavon and Ballymena United — are opposed to a summer switch.

NIFL thought that an early July start may represent a possible compromise but Crusaders and Linfield both feel this is too close to European qualifiers and could spark a fixtures headache.

Glentoran are also understood to have their concerns regarding the merits of a July kick-off.

The Crues favour a May to February model, while the Blues may be open to a June start.

It’s thought that any change would need a 75% majority vote in favour — the backing of eight of the 12 Danske Bank Premiership clubs — to proceed.

And if agreement cannot be reached then the calendar will not change.

We already have a product which is popular but can we make it better?

Those who favour a move to summer football predict improved showings in Europe, better weather and better pitches.

But in a largely part-time league, would players be content to give up their summer holidays?

NIFL have a job on their hands trying to square this circle, but talks are ongoing and Bannsiders chairman McKendry feels the summer battle isn’t over yet.

While some clubs like Dungannon Swifts say they are “neutral” on the issue, Coleraine believe our game has the potential to sparkle even brighter in the summer.

“We would like to move the season to either the start of May, June or July,” said McKendry.

“Ideally, the start of May might be better, but July 1 is also worth considering as it’s moving the game forward. Hopefully we can play in better weather.

“I do believe that some agreement can be reached for the betterment of everyone, not just one or two clubs.

“There’s no point in moving to suit a few clubs, this is to improve the whole game, and I’m hopeful the issue can be taken forward.

“My original thought was to adopt a League of Ireland model, but that’s a radical change and early June or July can be accommodated by everyone. We should try something to see if it works.

“We can always change back. We remain open minded and still firmly believe we can make the league better by playing in the summer more.

“We have a great product but we can still make it better for everyone.

“I think the July 1 start date is a step in the right direction, and I respect other clubs might want to start earlier but it’s important that any change we make is a constructive one that suits all the clubs.”

An even more radical change would see the formation of an All-Island League but, while clubs have considered that proposal, it seems more likely a Setanta Cup style knockout tournament could someday be resurrected.

“I would be in favour of an all-Ireland knockout tournament,” added McKendry.

“I know the Setanta Cup had its highs and lows but it had some good moments as well. It was good exposure for our clubs and we can learn from playing southern teams.

“We are open to anything that makes our league better and more professional.

“I believe an All-Island League