The war of words between Shamrock Rovers’ Michael O’Neill and Drogheda boss Alan Mathews has continued with both men expressing their disappointment at recent comments made.
O’Neill believes that Pat Flynn did not deserve to be sent from the pitch during an FAI Cup clash between the two clubs, but Mathews is adamant that the player was guilty of a headbutt.
“We were upset by the comments made by the Drogheda manager in relation Saturday. That was disappointing unprofessional,” O’Neill insisted after his side’s 3-1 replay win on Tuesday.
“When it was shown on TV, it was shown that the player was innocent and it was an honest challenge. To make a comment which was a slur on a player’s character was very poor.”
However, there was no change in Mathews’ stance, the Dubliner retorting: “The reality of what happened last Saturday is that our player Paul Shields broke his nose. I saw the incident and I know what happened.
“I am not a liar, and if that’s how Michael O’Neill wants to motivate his players, then he can do that.”
Mathews is, however, hoping to strengthen his squad further in the coming weeks, particularly in light of Gavin Whelan’s decision to join Irish League side Lisburn.
“Gavin has expressed a desire to move, it’s a good opportunity for me,” the ex-Cork City boss said. We’ve exhausted a number of contacts but resources will dictate who we can and can’t bring in.”
Michael Foley, meanwhile, is set to join up with Gareth Cronin at Longford Town.