*The gates at Avenue Utd’s home ground in Roslevan. Photograph: John Mangan
AVENUE UNITED have completed an internal investigation following the dissemination of an image connected to the club which contained illegal substances.
Having won a competition to get a sponsored set of jerseys, a photograph showcasing one of the new jerseys inadvertently highlighted drug-taking with the image circulating across social media this week. The club has stressed that no player or coach was associated with the photograph or the domestic setting whereby it was taken and has condemned the contents of the photograph.
On the week leading up to a fortieth anniversary celebration of the club, the incident has clouded over what should be a joyous time in the history of Avenue Utd.
The Clare Echo understands that sponsors within of the Roselevan based club have voiced their disappointment with the matter while parents of underage players were among those to express their worry.
In a statement on Wednesday morning, a spokesperson for Avenue Utd outlined, “Avenue United are aware of a photo that is currently circulating on social media and have carried out an internal investigation into the matter”.
“Firstly, we would like to reassure all players, parents and sponsors that the photo, which was taken in a domestic setting was not associated to any coach or player at Avenue United”.
Support is being offered to the person who took the photograph, the club confirmed. “Whilst the club unreservedly condemns the content of the photo, the club are currently offering support to the individual involved as a duty of care and have advised of the supports that are available. The club will be making no further statement on the matter at
this time”.
This internal investigation concluded on Tuesday night, The Clare Echo has learned. Exact recommendations and sanctions following this have not been revealed but the club is committed to the “duty of care” towards the person involved.
