Can't see any of de big clubs going under, tho' smaller clubs might be killed off by uefa licensing. Worst case scenario for Shels/Bohs would be semi-pro and big reduction in playing staff. Rovers on de other hand could be in for another couple of rough seasons, mebbe even relegation unless some benefactors come in. Can't see them disappearing altogether.
What de eL needs to do is become a feeder league a la Norway. We need to keep players all de way from schoolboy to senior teams and then sell off de brightest lights for proper money to UK/European teams (div 1 and up). This way de best talent stays in de league until min. 22-23, raising standards and when they do move on (and on again) de clubs get money to plough back into developing more. We are never going to be able to match Prem/Liga standards, but at least should be aiming to be on fringes of Champ league qualification each year.
We are in a position now to make that happen, but will need to make some big changes over next few seasons. First and foremost all clubs need to look at their financial stability and build from there. Next money should be ploughed into coaching and youth development. Players' wages expenses will be covered by Uefa license so clubs won't be able to pay themselves into trouble any more.
The only real problem with this is Irish fans' apathy, and I don't just mean de barstoolers. There is also still a lot of business money available if de clubs can somehow tap it.
Bookmarks