Dundalk Players and Management Await Payment Amid Ownership Concerns
Dundalk FC’s players and coaching staff are facing delays in their wages, adding to the growing uncertainty surrounding the club’s future. Lilywhites manager Jon Daly confirmed that both players and management have yet to be paid amidst concerns over club ownership.
The delay comes as rumours swirl about owner Brian Ainscough’s potential departure, just nine months after he took control of the club. Speaking to LMFM following Dundalk’s 2-1 loss to St Patrick’s Athletic in the Premier Division, Daly admitted the situation was worrying, especially for those with financial commitments like mortgages.
“I’m not going to stand here and tell lies to you. We haven’t been paid, but we’ve been informed that we will be, just there’s going to be a bit of a delay,” Daly said. “It’s not easy. Footballers – especially in the League of Ireland – aren’t on huge money and will have bills like everyone else. There’s that little worry for some of them.”
Despite assurances that payment would be made in a few days, Daly acknowledged the unease among his squad. “It’s not a nice situation to be in. The owner is looking for investment, and that’s where I’m led to believe things are at. It’s not ideal when rumours start spreading, but we have to take their word for it.”
The uncertainty extends beyond the dressing room, with Dundalk fans increasingly anxious about the club’s future at Oriel Park. Daly noted that Peter Halpin, the club’s CEO, has been transparent but is also in the dark about many details.
“The hardest part is the uncertainty and not knowing,” Daly said. “I do like to plan and prepare as much as possible, but right now, it’s a waiting game. I’ve been upfront with the players about what I know, and hopefully, in a few days, there’s better news coming from the club.”
On the pitch, Dundalk’s struggles continue, with the latest defeat to St Pat’s keeping them rooted at the bottom of the SSE Airtricity League Premier Division. Reflecting on the result, Daly admitted it had been a tough week. “We’re disappointed to come away with nothing from the game. It compounds the bad week that we’ve had.”
With just seven games left in the season and the club’s financial future uncertain, Dundalk FC faces a difficult road ahead both on and off the field. an architectural conservation area. Significant further information received on 23/03/2023.