FAI threaten disciplinary action on clubs breaching Covid-19 protocols leaving Derry City's new signings doubtful for Sligo clash

There had been some confusion as to whether Derry City's new signings who have arrived from England in recent days were exempt from the 14 day self-isolation period imposed by the Irish government.

However the FAI has tonight written to all SSE Airtricity League clubs reminding them of their commitment to the rules and warned clubs found breaching Covid-19 protocols would be subject to disciplinary action.

It's been a grey area ahead of the Candy Stripes' Premier Division clash against Sligo at the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium given the game will take place in Northern Ireland where England, Wales and Scotland are considered a Common Travel Area (CTA).

Those arriving in the north from the CTA do not have to self-isolate according to the Department of Health N.I., however, clubs south of the border must adhere to Irish Government guidelines where people coming from Britain to the Republic of Ireland are subjected to a two-week quarantine period.

Former Derry City striker, Junior Ogedi-Uzoke, who recently signed for Sligo, is ineligible for Friday's game at Brandywell due to the restrictions. And Bit O'Red manager Liam Buckley stated that 'every club has to stick to the rules and ensure for health reasons that for the sake of everyone they abide by them.”

Derry City unveiled Londoner, Ibramhim Meite and former Stoke City U23 captain, Jake Dunwoody as new signings this week and while they've both received clearance, it's now unlikely the pair will take any part in the game.

Speaking earlier today, City boss Devine said the club would be respecting the FAI's rules on the matter and public health advice.

"There's players who won't be involved because of fitness levels," he said. "There's players who have been here a while and there's players who have been quarantined for a while.

"We have an idea what the team will be but we have to understand we have to go by the rules and make sure everything is done properly."

In a statement released by the FAI tonight, the association said all clubs must confirm to the league office by 12 midday on Friday, July 31st that all players involved in SSE Airtricity League fixtures this weekend have complied with the protocols.

Clubs have also been reminded that HSE and Irish Government guidelines must be adhered to by all players playing in the SSE Airtricity League.

"Any club in breach of the protocols or any FAI Rule will be subject to disciplinary proceedings," read the statement. "The FAI thanks all those who have worked so hard to allow for a Safer Return to Play for the SSE Airtricity League this weekend. The FAI will not accept any behaviour that compromises the return of the SSE Airtricity League."