Cork City's troubles deepened this evening after they were docked 10 league points due to the ongoing financial difficulties at the club. The sanction was imposed with immediate effect following a meeting of the League's licensing committee this evening.

While such a penalty is not mandatory, it had been expected as both Shamrock Rovers and Longford Town lost points after experiencing similar financial problems in the past.

The deduction sees Cork drop from third to fifth in the standings and leaves them with little chance of securing European football next season.

"A meeting of the Independent Club Licensing committee was convened tonight and they deducted 10 points from Cork City for being involved in an examinership process," explained an FAI statement. "The committee was keen to express that it is imperative for all clubs to adhere to sound financial policies.

"Now that the club has entered into examinership, the FAI has provided the examiner with a letter stating that the FAI will support the club during the examinership process as it strives to regain sound financial footing."