Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
PLAYER DROPPED AFTER FURY OVER CONVICTION
Donnelly axed after indecent image rap
FOOTBALLER Jay Donnelly will not play for Cliftonville today, the club has announced.
The 23-year-old was convicted of distributing an indecent image of a child earlier this week.
The North Belfast club released a statement yesterday saying it was seeking a “resolution”.
The statement said: “As we are sure our supporters are aware, Cliftonville Football Club are dealing with a very sensitive and delicate matter in relation to Jay Donnelly.
“The club committee must always ensure they act correctly when dealing with legal and employment matters and, as such, we have over the past few days been speaking to and availing of advice from all parties involved as well as support organisations.
“We have received legal advice not to comment on this matter further at this time.
“We assure all this situation is extremely difficult to resolve and ask our supporters and indeed the media to please bear with us as we seek a resolution.”
The statement added it had been decided the striker will not represent the club in today’s home Irish Premiership clash against Dungannon Swifts at Solitude.
A protest had been planned for today by women’s groups, Belfast Feminist Network and Reclaim the Night, but it has been called off.
Reclaim the Night said it was “pleased” Donnelly would not be playing.
A statement added: “We will continue our conversations with Cliftonville FC. There is a much broader issue that needs to be addressed in sporting teams generally.”
Donnelly is expected back in court early in the New Year after pre-sentence reports were ordered.
Meanwhile, Cliftonville’s coach Neil Adair has announced his departure.
He said on Twitter: “For the record, I have left my position of first team coach at Cliftonville FC.
“I’ve been warmly welcomed at the club and am gutted to be leaving.
“This is not ideal personally or professionally but I feel I have no choice in the circumstances. I wish the club well going forward.”
YESTERDAY