UEFA has today informed the Football Association of Ireland that approval has been granted to Sligo Rovers to host their forthcoming Europa League Third Qualifying Round at the Showgrounds.
Following an inspection from UEFA officials at the ground, the FAI has been informed that Sligo Rovers must implement a number of minor upgrades to the facilities at the venue.
There will also be a requirement to increase the size of the playing area by extending the south side of the ground and to add additional seating which will bring the seated capacity up to over 3,600.
FAI Chief Executive John Delaney commented: "I recently pledged to make a personal contribution to Sligo Rovers to help with the ground improvements at the Showgrounds as I felt it was vital for football in the area that this game be allowed take place in Sligo. "I am delighted to hear the news from UEFA today and will be glad to honour my commitment to the club as it is a great day for Sligo football."
Sligo Rovers Chairman Michael Toolan is similarly pleased that the efforts of the FAI and the club have paid off. "I would like to place on record my thanks to the FAI and the Club Licensing Department and John Delaney in particular for the amount of work that was put into securing this game for the people of Sligo," said Toolan.
"This occasion will be very important for the football community in Sligo and for Paul Cook and his squad in particular it was crucial that the game took place at The Showgrounds."
Sligo Rovers will learn their Third Qualifying Round opponents after the completion of the Second Qualifying Round over the next two weeks. Potential opponents could include Atletico Madrid, Stoke City, Sparta Prague, Red Star Belgrade or Palermo
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