‘Patience and unity’ crucial as Gerard Lyttle shows sympathy to former club Sligo Rovers and calls for calm around Irish League

Former Cliftonville manager Lyttle spent around 18 months in charge at Sligo before his departure in October 2018.

He was quick to reflect on the friendships made and respect for so many connected to the League of Ireland outfit following Thursday’s statement confirming “temporary layoffs for all management, players and administration staff”.

Northern Ireland Football League officials this week established an internal steering group designed to map out a future for the domestic season following the UEFA aim to complete all club competitions by June 30.

“Things did not end the way I wanted at Sligo but the club has many fantastic people involved with a passionate fanbase and gates of 2.000-plus each home game,” said Lyttle. “Sligo’s situation as a full-time outfit may be different to what the majority of Irish League clubs face but the importance of fans across the turnstiles is similar.

“These are uncertain times for everyone and health and wellbeing remains the priority.

“But I do hope UEFA can offer financial aid to the smaller leagues as I can appreciate how difficult it is going to prove for our clubs the longer the suspension of fixtures stands.

“We count on the financial support of fans in the Irish League and many clubs will also find life is proving difficult for a number of sponsors.

“Players’ wages remain a significant part of any budget along with the running costs.

“We must stick together, with now a time for unity and patience.

“If clubs ever follow Sligo and make difficult decisions of that nature, realise they are not taken lightly.

“These are unprecedented times and people with the responsibility for these decisions are doing what they feel is in the best interests to the protect the future of our clubs.”