Frustrated Bray players ready to ask for quick exit

BRAY WANDERERS players are ready to tell the FAI they want to be allowed to leave the club this week because of the delay in securing guarantees over their future.

Clarity was expected yesterday over the status of a new investor that has indicated they can put in funds to help the club meet commitments between now and the end of the season.

But a bereavement meant a number of FAI officials were unavailable so a meeting between Abbotstown officials, the players and their union representatives has been rescheduled for today.

Bray manager Harry Kenny appeared quite confident on Friday that a deal that could be done which would satisfy players that the money is there to pay their wages.

But the Seagulls hierarchy are yet to convince the playing squad that they have the means to avoid further problems occurring down the line.

The FAI have met with Bray with a view to getting assurances that they can honour the commitment that led to a Premier Division licence being handed out before the start of the season. BACKING At that point, Bray gave a letter of comfort based on financial backing from Gerry Mulvey – who has since stopped funding the club, although he is now operating as interim chairman after the resignation of Denis O’Connor.

The latter had indicated that he had sourced fresh support and discussions are ongoing involving the proposed new investor in the ongoing saga.

But it’s understood that the FAI authorities continue to hold some reservations with a view to a new benefactor providing certainty.

They have looked for a similar commitment to the one that led to the initial licence being granted.

The delay has frustrated players who are conscious that the Irish transfer deadline closes next Monday.

They are still looking for their wages to be bonded to ensure that the money will come in on time.

If next Monday passes and the players are still at the club, it’s understood that the FAI do have the option to cancel their contracts if problems arise. They could then join other clubs after the deadline as free agents.

Activating that option would set an interesting precedent for future problems of this nature that might pose complications.

Several members of the Bray squad want to go now on the basis that it would reduce the Seagulls’ wage bill and allow them to sort a new club before the window closes – in case prospective employers sign other options.

Gary McCabe and two-year contract holders Aaron Greene and Keith Buckley are the main men in demand.