QUINN CONSORTIUM NEARS FORMAL OFFER TO FAI

NIALL QUINN is close to submitting a formal document for the FAI detailing his vision for Irish football, which includes academies at all SSE Airtricity League clubs. It is understood eight investors from the private sector ‘with good ideas to help build a better future’ are prepared to back Quinn’s ground-breaking proposals. ‘There are some bright people involved with bright ideas, professional people with experience of football in other parts of the world. ‘One of the biggest things we were looking at is a community buy-in, both from the Government and from multi-nationals, who would support football in the community. ‘It is very important that the FAI sees how that might work. ‘We’re trying to package something together for potential change and present a document to the FAI soon. Hopefully that will lead to a further conversation. If the FAI like it, or like a bit of it even, then great. If they like none of it, then fair enough at least we tried.’ The former Ireland striker has had a second meeting with FAI’s competition chief, Fran Gavin, but was reluctant yesterday to go into specifics. ‘We’ll demystify everything in a little while, it’s too early yet but there are some nice things happening. ‘In fairness to Fran, the FAI are open to having a look at what some good people are suggesting.’ At the core of Quinn’s vision is to ‘deflect youngsters from the boat to England and get them on to a better career path here (Ireland) through education and facilities. He has noted how other international sports have built up support structures from within to keep their better young players at home. ‘You look at Leinster rugby for instance. It started in the academies and has pushed on from there. ‘I went to Shamrock Rovers and they have a fabulous academy there. I think every club should have an academy and it should be encouraged.’ Quinn is eager for change to be embraced quickly. ‘As the (FAI) Centenary approaches, we can have a lovely game in the Aviva to celebrate 100 years and look back, or we can have a chance of a new era of domestic football here.’