John O'Shea understands fan frustration at FAI ticketing policy

John O’Shea understands fan frustration over the FAI’s ticketing policy, admitting he’s had direct feedback on the bundle package from his friends.

A four-year wait to finally land a main sponsor had the spotlight on the FAI’s commercial decisions before they pitched tickets for these friendlies into a combo starting at €70.

According to the association, 38,128 turned up for Saturday’s stalemate – a full 10,000 fewer than the equivalent fixture exactly two years ago – with no more than 25,000 are expected for the visit of Switzerland tonight (7.45pm).

Families outside of Dublin were already financially pressed commuting to the weekend fixture, leading to an abundance of spare tickets being available on Monday below face value.

In a clear sign of the marketing wheeze backfiring, the FAI have decided now to unwind the duo aspect by putting on sale single tickets for the second part at €35.

Even an interim boss renowned for his diplomacy was aware of the outcry when asked for his opinion on the fiasco.

“My own mates from Waterford were giving out to me about it as well,” he responded.

“Look, when you go back long ago the idea in general for a double-header is good in terms of getting the support for both games but that’s something outside of my remit.

“That’s the planning beforehand in terms of their approach to selling things.

“I’ll never have any doubt in terms of Irish fans turning up to support the team, whatever the case may be (but) it’s something that people get in touch with and something you look at further down that line.

“I’m sure that approach can be had for fans and departments to speak and find a solution to it. Ultimately, you do want a fully packed stadium for every international game.”

Despite the