Damien Duff apologises to FAI staff for 'ridiculous' comments

Damien Duff has apologised to FAI staff for saying that 90% of them should be sacked.

In a press conference last Wednesday ahead of their UEFA Conference League tie with St Joseph's, the Shelbourne manager said he would "raze" Abbotstown, declaring it "the most uninviting, unenthusiastic workplace not in world football but in the world."

Duff added, "I'd level it and I would probably sack 90% of the workforce."

On Saturday, Duff wrote a letter to FAI staff apologising for his remarks, branding them "ridiculous" and "deeply disrespectful".

"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 90 per cent of the staff," wrote the Shelbourne head coach.

"I knew it was wrong when I said it and it's 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 I will always continue to fight for them both but my words helped neither. My emotion and fight for the game came out poorly."