Dundalk goalkeeper’s 10-game ban for racial abuse of ref

English-born Shelvey issues apology after calling official an ‘Irish c***’

Dundalk say their goalkeeper George Shelvey “regrets” his use of discriminatory language after he was hit with a 10-game ban by the FAI.

The former Nottingham Forest player was sent off after the final whistle in Monday’s derby defeat to Drogheda United and was facing an automatic one-game ban.

But an FAI disciplinary committee confirmed that Shelvey would be banned for 10 games for “abuse towards a match official which was in breach of the FAI regulations on racism/discrimination”. It’s believed that Shelvey used the phrase “Irish c***” when addressing the ref.

Dundalk and Shelvey have accepted their punishment and there will be no appeal: “Following a process completed by the Independent Disciplinary Control Unit, Dundalk FC can confirm that George Shelvey has been suspended for 10 matches for using discriminatory language towards the referee at the end of the game with Drogheda United

on May 6,” Dundalk said yesterday.

“The player attended today’s hearing in which he explained that he deeply regrets the language that he used towards the referee. While George realised very quickly that he had used inappropriate language, he did not, at first, comprehend the discriminatory aspect of his words.

“However, having discussed the matter with club officials he now fully accepts that his words were not only offensive, but also discriminatory. Both George, and the club, accept the sanction imposed by the Independent Disciplinary Control Unit and will not be making an appeal. Going forward, Dundalk FC will work with George to develop his understanding of these issues.”

Players have been handed down bans for similar offences related to racial abuse in recent years but a 10-game suspension is believed to be the longest issued by the FAI.

Dundalk are away to an in-form Waterford tonight and now have to plan without Shelvey until July.