St Pat’s Euro party marred by payment row

St Patrick’s Athletic should be buoyed up heading into the second leg of their Europa League third round qualifier tomorrow, however, a payment dispute is overshadowing the big night.

The Pat’s players are shunning the media as part of a stance against the club for not providing a “satisfactory response” to their written proposal “concerning loss of earnings and European bonuses”.

“Despite numerous requests the club has refused to get into any meaningful discussions with the players and its representatives the PFAI,” a PFAI statement read.

“It is with great regret that we are left in the position where we feel we have to bring this issue into the public domain. Our efforts in the Uefa Europa League over the past six weeks have not been properly recognised by the club and we are deeply disappointed with the club’s lack of acknowledgement of our achievements based on our status as part-time players.

“We regret that due to the club’s actions we will not make ourselves available to partake in any media activities ahead of the game on Thursday. We will also take any further steps we deem necessary to ensure our efforts are recognised. The players and its representatives remain available to discuss this issue with the board.”

The players have been waiting for a response from the club since Monday, 25 July and have now decided to take action.

Pat’s will hold a press conference at 2pm in Richmond Park today ahead of their Europa League third round qualifier second leg with FC Krpaty Lyviv. Pat's trail 2-0.