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Belfast Live
Belfast Live
Sport
Gareth Fullerton

Irish Cup semi-final date raises bizarre problem for clubs

The Sadler's Peaky Blinder Irish Cup semi-final between Cliftonville and Glentoran has been set for April 7 - when both managers will be in Switzerland.

The Irish FA confirmed on Friday the dates and venues for both cup semis.

Ballymena United vs Coleraine will be played on Friday night, March 27 at the Oval - and will be live on the BBC.

And the massive all-Belfast clash between Cliftonville and Glentoran will take place at Windsor Park on Tuesday night, April 7 (7.45pm).

It has emerged that both Reds boss Paddy McLaughlin and Glens head coach Mick McDermott will be in Switzerland that week for their UEFA Pro Licence course.

They are due to fly out on Sunday, April 5 and won't return home until Thursday, April 9.

As it currently stands, that means neither manager will be in the dugout for what is a massive game for both clubs.

The Reds and Glens will be looking to book their place in the showpiece final, with the Irish Cup also offering a potential route to Europe.

Both clubs are currently looking into the matter, while the Irish FA is also understood be aware of the issue.

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