Bohemians' hopes suffer big setback as Carey loan deal ruled out
Tuesday July 14 2009
BOHEMIANS' Champions League hopes were dealt a big blow yesterday when Graham Carey was ruled out of their Champions League clash with Red Bull Salzburg.
Bohs had been hoping to re-sign Carey on loan from Celtic in time for the Ireland U-21 international to play in the first leg of their qualifying tie in Austria tomorrow.
However, the FAI vetoed the deal because of the transfer embargo they have placed on Bohs because the club is operating above the 65pc Players Salary Protocol.
Already without captain Owen Heary due to suspension, Bohs had taken Carey to Austria with them in the expectation that he would get the green light to play.
Carey's situation was further complicated by his decision to re-sign for Celtic and then rejoin Bohs on loan.
He joined Bohs on loan from Celtic in February and became an instant hit at Dalymount Park, making 18 league appearances before returning to Glasgow a fortnight ago to sort out his future.
arrangement
Following discussions with new Celtic manager Tony Mowbray, Carey agreed to sign a new one-year deal and rejoin Bohs for a second loan spell until the end of Bohs' season. That arrangement is now in doubt as a result of the FAI's decision.
The Bohs squad arrived at their Salzburg base late on Sunday night and trained at a local ground yesterday before having another workout at the match stadium last night.
Brian Shelley, meanwhile, has admitted that this season may be the last chance saloon for a League of Ireland breakthrough in Europe.
"It would be great to do it, particularly with the way things are going in the league," said Shelley. "I think we're well equipped for it. A lot of the lads have played in big European games and hopefully that will stand to us.
"I suppose there is a little bit (of extra pressure) because we do know deep down that it could keep us all in a job next year."
- aidan fitzmaurice
