Derry axed from League of Ireland

Derry City have been sensationally put out of the League of Ireland.

The club, which has been plagued by serious financial troubles, had its contract with the league terminated at a crisis meeting on Saturday.

The league said Derry had broken regulations by holding secondary, unofficial contracts with players.

It is understood the Candystripes are planning to fight the decision and are considering legal action in an attempt to regain their Premier Division place.

The club can reapply to get back into the league but would have to play in a lower division.

"The decision has devastating consequences for this club but we intend to address these urgently," said a Derry statement.

"We are exploring the possibility of any type of appeal procedure within the FAI or via a court of law in Dublin or Belfast.

"We have not been presented with any evidence of any wrong doing."

Derry have not received the 80,000 euro they would have got for finishing fourth in the Premier Division which concluded on Friday.

According to the League of Ireland, Derry officials are to have talks with an FAI delegation to explore how they can play senior football outside the Premier Division.

Derry's Setanta Cup match away to St Patrick's Athletic on Tuesday has been postponed.

The decision to dismiss Derry from the Premier Division means Galway United are safe from relegation.

Bottom club Bray Wanderers have been thrown a lifeline as they will now face Drogheda in the play-off.

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