THE BOARD of directors at Derry City Football Club have today issued a statement to fans about how the club is operatin while the season is on hold over the Coronavirus outbreak.
The board is hopeful the SSE Airtricity leaue season will restart in the “middle of June”.
But that will depend on how the well the country can reduce the spread of COVID-19 and prevent an escalation in deaths.
The statement says: “The Derry City Board has been briefed by its management team that the playing staff of the Club are all fit and well.
“There is regular contact between the management and players and a personalised fitness programme has been supplied to individuals.
“We are all conscious that it is important to continue to follow guidelines as outlined by the health authorities.
“It is hoped that football will kick off again by the middle of June and, if that were to be the case, it will be a great boost to both the players and the fans.
“Obviously it is not just the domestic league that has been affected by the pandemic; European football has also been interrupted.
“Thankfully, Derry City will be in the hat for the Europa League qualifiers and the draw for that is scheduled to take place in the middle of June. That gives the players and the fans much to look forward to.
“The Board is also pleased that the new home shirt is now available to supporters.
“Purchasing the new jersey is a way of supporting the Club, especially in this unique season. It is available to buy online and is on sale as well in Harkin’s shop in the Brandywell. Other Club merchandise is also available from these outlets.
“The Board would also like to take the opportunity to acknowledge and thank Chairman, Philip O Doherty, for his enormous financial support to the Club.
“That support has always been important but because there is presently no income to the Club while wages and expenses continue as normal, that support has been essential.
“Appreciation was also expressed for the continuing efforts of those who organise the monthly draw and club lotto. Both are important contributions to the finances of the Club and more especially in present circumstances.
“We would also like to highlight the continuing support and loyalty of the Club’s sponsors.
“The FAI has not yet decided if and how the number of matches will be truncated once the season has been relaunched. Those decisions will be subject to guidance issued by the Irish Government.
“Clarity on how many, if any, home games that will not take place will not become clear until the end of the season.
“The Board decided that if consideration had to be given to compensating season ticket holders, it would be under the
following guidelines and preferences.
a) acknowledging and thanking supporters who see their season ticket as an ongoing support to the Club.
b) Issuing of vouchers which can be redeemed in the Club’s shop.
c) Cash refunds determined by the number of cancelled home games.
“The Board would like to wish both staff and supporters well in the coming weeks and we look forward to the return of football to the Brandywell.”
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