Interim Deputy CEO of the FAI Niall Quinn says League of Ireland clubs are in a "very dangerous situation" with the resumption of football activity in Ireland still unclear.
Dundalk, Shamrock Rovers, Bohemians and Derry City are set to play in a behind closed doors warm-up tournament in late July ahead of potential European football and a league resumption.
The four clubs have been tested twice for COVID-19 and all players and staff have returned negative results. The other clubs in the league are yet to undergo testing.
"It's a tough situation," Quinn admitted to Sky Sports News.
"It's a very dangerous situation for our clubs to try and stay going and to play and it has taken over a lot of my team and rightly so because we all want to get back and we would be the only summer league in Europe that didn't make it back if we don't."
There is understood to be a split among League of Ireland clubs about restarting the league behind closed doors, with the financial viability of most clubs underpinned by their gate receipts.
Dan McDonnell told OTB it would be an embarrassment were football not to restart. Quinn acknowledged the financial inequality between clubs.
"We have strong clubs and clubs that are not so strong and to act in the interest of all is the key," he said.
"We've gone ahead of the posse, because all our sports are in trouble over here, it's not just football
"We have tried to find a formula that will at least begin the pathway back for everyone. Some of the clubs are a little worried about that and we get that.
"It wouldn't be right to plunge them into something they can't sustain and we'll need outside help for that."
Positive News
Quinn had hoped to be able to bring some "positive news" for clubs regarding emergency outside funding. The Irish government and FIFA are potential options with the FAI having already advanced funds from UEFA.
"We've been courting that for some time now and it is beginning to formulate and we hope to have some positive news for the clubs in a week or so's time.
"But it's been difficult, as you know it is not just football that is suffering, it is every industry, and when you are knocking on government's door, or other agencies for help, you are in a queue."
Download the brand new OffTheBall App in the Play Store & App Store right now! We've got you covered!
Subscribe to OffTheBall's YouTube channel for more videos, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for the latest sporting news and content.
