The FAI has expressed its disappointment at Monaghan United’s decision to withdraw from the Airtricity League Premier Division.
Monaghan announced their decision earlier today, but the FAI has said it was disappointed ‘that the matter was not discussed with the League prior to the announcement.’
The FAI statement read: “Following a meeting of its Board, the Football Association of Ireland today expressed its disappointment at the decision of Monaghan United to withdraw from the Airtricity League Premier Division.
“The Association regrets that the club has taken this decision at this time and is disappointed that the matter was not discussed with the League prior to the announcement.
“Under the Airtricity League participation agreement no club is permitted to withdraw from the agreement or cease participation other than by relegation or a decision of the FAI Board to terminate the agreement.
"Following its meeting, the FAI Board will now terminate the agreement with Monaghan United."
“Consequently, the results of Monaghan United in the Premier Division this season have been expunged....”
It continued: “Under the terms of the participation agreement the players at Monaghan United will be declared free agents with immediate effect.”
“The FAI Board and the National League Executive Committee highlighted their disappointment at Monaghan United's decision particularly since the club has received significant support from the FAI and the National League including a facility development loan for €150,000 of which over €100,000 is still outstanding as well as a €25,000 grant to the club in 2009 during its AGM in Monaghan and assistance in securing Sports Capital Grants for the club,” concluded the statement.
