Drogheda United manager Kevin Doherty has opened up on the impact of a damaging week for the club off the park and admitted that a quick resolution is required to avoid destroying the progress that has been made under his watch.
The Boynesiders were in the news ahead of the Louth derby after co-chairperson Joanna Byrne revealed that the club’s board – which is American dominated – had put pressure on her to resign for stating that Ireland should not play their Nations League games with Israel.
This internal conflict comes at a particularly sensitive time for Drogheda United, as the club continues to navigate the fallout from a UEFA decision that initially barred them from competing in this season’s UEFA Conference League. The dispute stems from UEFA’s multi-club ownership rules, which prevent teams under the same ownership group from participating in the same European competition. Drogheda, owned by the Trivela Group, qualified for the Conference League by winning last year’s FAI Cup, but Danish side Silkeborg, also under the Trivela umbrella, secured a place through their league position. Silkeborg’s higher league standing takes precedence under UEFA guidelines.
Doherty remains hopeful that the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) will overturn the UEFA decision, stating in June 2025 that the club has a “strong case.” A ruling was expected on Monday, but the outcome remains unclear as of . The potential expulsion from the Conference League represents a significant financial and sporting blow to the club, particularly after the historic FAI Cup victory.
The boardroom split, as highlighted by Byrne, adds another layer of complexity to an already challenging situation. Doherty acknowledged the impact of these off-field issues, stating that it’s inevitable that both he and the players are affected. However, he emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and perspective. “You wouldn’t be human if you didn’t think about it,” he said, “but it needs to be put in perspective.”
Doherty’s tenure at Drogheda United has been marked by significant progress. He took charge in 2021, overseeing the club’s promotion back to the Premier Division. This was followed by top-flight survival and, crucially, the FAI Cup triumph. His contract was extended through 2027, a testament to the faith the club has in his leadership. Doherty expressed his deep connection to the club, stating, “Anybody that knows me knows how much I love this club, the players, the staff, the volunteers and the supporters.”
The Trivela Group’s future plans for Drogheda United are reportedly aligned with Doherty’s vision for the club, but the current internal strife threatens to derail those plans. Doherty praised the support of Ben, Wes, and Matt within the Trivela Group, as well as Rian Wogan, and the wider volunteer group, emphasizing their importance to the club’s success.
The situation is further complicated by a Sinn Féin TD urging the owners of Drogheda United to reflect on the support they receive, suggesting a growing public concern over the club’s direction. The potential for Conference League expulsion, coupled with the boardroom tensions, casts a shadow over the club’s future.
Doherty’s ability to navigate these challenges will be crucial. He has consistently demonstrated a commitment to the club and its supporters, and his leadership will be tested in the coming weeks as the CAS ruling looms and the boardroom dispute continues. The manager’s focus remains on the on-field performance, but he recognizes the need for a swift and positive resolution to the off-field issues to protect the progress that has been made.
The events of the past week highlight the complexities of modern football ownership and the challenges faced by clubs navigating UEFA’s regulations. For Drogheda United, the stakes are high, and the need for unity and decisive action has never been greater. Doherty, who admitted to barely eating or sleeping in the last 48 hours, is clearly feeling the pressure, but remains determined to fight for the future of the club.
The Louth derby, and subsequent league fixtures, will provide a crucial test of the team’s resilience and ability to focus amidst the turmoil. The club’s supporters will be hoping for a positive outcome both on and off the pitch, as Drogheda United strives to build on its recent successes and secure its place in Irish football.
