Limerick FC set for return as FAI does a U-turn on licence

LIMERICK FC look to be back for the 2020 First Division after a capitulation by the FAI which will allow the club to apply for a licence. The FAI’s U-turn followed passionate arguments, both in the High Court and out, by club owner Pat O’Sullivan that the debtridden-club had left Examinership last month and had new backers. While it remains to be seen if their application is approved, the shift by the FAI suggests Limerick have a strong case to become the 11th team in the First Division. The development leaves the FAI in an awkward position as its board last week approved the membership of Shamrock Rovers’ B team to the First Division, despite opposition. Should Limerick get a licence, the entire First Division fixture list will be re-drawn and one team will be idle every week. The new season is due to kick off on February 14, which allows little time for the application to be considered by the Independent Club Licensing Committee. In a statement last night the FAI confirmed that ‘Limerick Football Club can apply for a licence to compete in the SSE Airtricity League First Division and the underage leagues for the 2020 season. ‘Following talks with the club this week, the FAI are satisfied that Limerick FC, who trade as Munster Football Club Limited, came out of Examinership on December 11th, 2019.’ Meanwhile, the FAI have confirmed there will be a two-way contest for the office of FAI President between FAI director Martin Heraghty and FAI Council member Gerry McAnaney next Saturday at its EGM in the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Blanchardstown.