Bohemians boss Keith Long says it's unfair for Shamrock Rovers, or any league club, to have a second team playing in the League of Ireland's First Division.

The row over the make-up of the second tier in the league has only intensified in recent days, with the FAI forced to issue a second fixture list for Division One for the 2020 campaign to account for the possible inclusion of Limerick FC, should their application for a licence be successful.

But Division One clubs remain opposed to the admission of Shamrock Rovers II, with a vow from rival clubs in that division to boycott games against the Hoops, a row which could end up in the high court if a resolution is not found.

Bohs boss Long, speaking at the launch of a new scholarship scheme between the club and the National College of Ireland, says he's opposed to the principle of B teams.

"I don't think any club should have an extra layer in their development path, that's not good for the game," Long said.

"I understand from Rovers' perspective why they would do it, they can attract more players. But it does give them a competitive advantage over other clubs.

"It's competition for us, but it should be equal for all clubs, we should have a reserve or U21 league. It has been handled badly."

In transfer news, St Patrick's Athletic have signed striker Martin Rennie from Scottish third tier side Montrose while Derry City brought in Norwegian centre-forward Tim Nilsen and Waterford FC signed Brentford midfielder Ali Coote.

Online Editors