Setback denied

Wimbledon's chairman Sam Hammam yesterday contradicted reports that a FIFA decision to vote down the proposed move to Dublin was a significant setback. "FIFA are only opposed as long as both associations fail to approve," Hammam said. "They have gone to the extent of arranging for a meeting between us and the FAI to take place. Now that is hardly the position of a body that is against the move.

"As long as the English FA and the FAI support it, they will accept it. At present, the officials of the FAI are in a minority of one. Everybody else is happy to do the deal, including FIFA. We have the full support of the English Premier League clubs, the English FA have come out to say they are happy to do it, and EUFA are also willing to accept it as long as the FAI agree."

Hammam added that if the debate is taken to the European Court then Wimbledon will win. "Political support in this country is very much behind this move and will actively try to bring it about as they recognise the immense good it will bring Ireland in a sporting context," he added. "It is our view that the people who are holding sway over the FAI are unwittingly blocking the progress of Irish clubs and Irish football as a whole."

Despite the assertions of Hammam, the FA stated a fortnight ago that it will continue to distance itself from any proposals by Wimbledon as long as the FAI oppose to move. A statement by the executive committee of the English FA confirmed that it had "received and considered a written document from Wimbledon FC which set out their views. The committee noted the objections of the Football Association of Ireland to the proposal remained as before."

The FA also stated that it "would not undertake any action in this matter unless and until the Football Association of Ireland removed its objections."