‘It was a ridiculous comment’ – Damien Duff apologises for ‘deeply disrespectful’ remark about FAI staff

The Shelbourne manager offered the opinions in an interview ahead of his side’s Europa Conference League meeting with St Joseph’s of Gibraltar, with discussion moving to the broader situation around the FAI after another challenging week.

“I would raze Abbotstown to the ground because it’s the most uninviting, unenthusiastic workplace not in world football but in the world,” said Duff, a former coach under Stephen Kenny. “I used to dread going in there once a month so I’d level it and I would probably sack 90 per cent of the workforce.”

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Unsurprisingly the comments caused a stir, especially as relatively low paid SIPTU workers in the FAI have been engaged in a pay dispute with their employers.

It prompted Duff to write an open letter – seen by the Irish Independent – which was sent to all staff via an email from interim CEO David Courell earlier today.

“I am writing this letter to you all to say that I am deeply sorry for my comments in the media on Wednesday 10th July when I mentioned sacking 90pc of the FAI staff,” said Duff.

“I knew it was wrong when I said it and it is all I have thought about since. You are all working hard for the benefit of Irish football. Trying to pay bills, support families and pay mortgages and, frankly, it was a ridiculous comment.

“It was deeply disrespectful to you all and you all have every right to be disappointed and angry with me.

“I love Irish football, I love the league and will always continue to fight for them both but my words helped neither. My emotion and fight for the game came out very poorly and I regret it. Once again, I am deeply sorry.”