Kevin Comes Clean

Republic of Ireland striker and ex-Cork City star Kevin Doyle spoke of his desire for his old club to do well now that the infamous ‘Doyle buy on clause’ was settled earlier this week.

Cork City had posted a statement confirming that Reading had agreed to buy out the clause which would have entitled Cork to a large chunk of money should the Irishman find a big money move to the Premiership in the future. It was rumoured that Cork would be entitled 10% of the first instalment received by Reading on any future sale.

During the summer, when Cork were going through the unenviable process of going broke, the likes of Aston Villa and Sunderland were knocking about the Reading hierarchy looking for a sale. Dollar-rich Villa were favourites to sign the striker, but with Sunderland willing to pay embarrassingly ridiculous money for anyone who had two eyes and an Irish grandmother, there was a glimmer of hope for the Munster sides flailing finances.

However a deal never came about and, sadly, Cork had to settle for this buy out (rumoured to be roughly £200k). Sadly Cork could not, seemingly, hang on until Christmas, with now Spurs, who are also willing to vomit millions of pounds on anyone with two feet and a pair of socks, solidly in the transfer rumour-mill.

Speaking after Ireland’s loss to the other home-side at Croker t’other night, Poland, Doyle was optimistic that the deal would help sort out Cork for their next foray in the Eircom League of Ireland Premier Division.

“I just wish Cork all the best. I hope they can sort out there problems. I’m sure they needed it, well I know they needed the money, after talking to one or two of the players,” he said.

Cork were right to gamble on the hit-man moving on last summer, however the gamble didn’t pay off so this immediate cash injection is really the best they could hope for in the circumstances.

“You know hopefully they can settle it from now and be successful next season,” added Doyle.

Pics by Gary Fox, www.garyfox.ie