It is certainly a first in a deal which will run for four years. One of the largest digital television broadcasters in the world is taking our football to a higher level, and a much larger audience. Because Sky Television has teamed up with the FAI for the exclusive rights for "all" of the Republic of Irelands "home" competitive and friendly international games, in a deal thought to be in the region of €7.5m. The deal will also include the rights to the Republic of Ireland U21 games, as the digital station will transmit all of the games for the next four years.
For non-digital viewers, approximately sixty minutes after the final whistle, the Senior Irish team games will then be re-shown on "terrestrial" or "normal cable television". And with more and more pressure on the FAI to further promote the leagues of Ireland, Irish television station "TV3" are now the FAIs partner in the broadcast of Irish Domestic Soccer. TV3 (Established 1998) will show a minimum of "five live Eircom league games per Irish domestic season", and a weekly round-up programme will also be broadcast, showing the action from the weeks Eircom league games.
Gary Breen still out of work
David Moyes and Everton could not honour Gary Breens request of £GBP25k wages per week, so they have pulled out of the race to sign the Republic of Ireland and ex-Coventry Defender. Gary Breen only of late has been deservingly praised for his contribution to Football at professional level. The centre backs' performance in the World Cup Finals 2002 was the icing on the cake for many watching eyes, as to why this redundant ex Div I player was the Captain of the Republic of Ireland National Soccer Team, as Stan was substituted. But Mick McCarthy had faith, and his faith in Breen certainly paid off. Breen rejected a deal offered to him by Coventry's new manager and Liverpool legend, Gary McAllister. And this too paid off. off too.
For Breen his ability to control the ball in defence and his height certainly make the good combination for an international footballer. And he scored the second of three in the 3-0 annihilation of Saudi Arabia in the 2002 World Cup Finals also. Newcastle United and West Ham United are still in with a shout to sign the 28 year old, and both Gary and his agent should have a decision made regarding his future, by the end of this week.
Martin O'Neill still a Bhoy
Glasglow Celtic manager "Martin O'Neill" has dismissed all claims that he will be the next boss of Leeds United. O'Neill was in Dublin today ahead of pre-season friendlies with Irish Eircom league teams, Shamrock Rovers and Shelbourne Football Club. He made his feelings clear at a fund-raising lunch for Shelbourne FC at the Burlington Hotel in Dublin. He wishes to see out his remaining year at Parkhead and has ruled out any move to the Yorkshire club.
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