Alliance's sports spokesperson has slammed the IFA's decision to back a redevelopment scheme at Windsor Park.

Kieran McCarthy said the move has damaged the chances of a shared all-sports stadium being built.

The Strangford MLA said: "Sprucing up dilapidated facilities is not the way forward - a new stadium which all three sports buy into would be a massive economic driver for Northern Ireland."

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He claimed The IFA's decision "lacks ambition" and needs a "total rethink".

"For Northern Ireland to build a united community we need shared services, not the duplication of facilities.

"The IFA's decision has seriously damaged the chances of a shared stadium being built."

Mr McCarthy added: "A shared stadium makes sense because Northern Ireland needs a ground which is a shared space where everyone feels they can come and can enjoy rugby, football and GAA. Anything less than a multi-sports stadium is simply not good enough."

Yesterday the IFA, who rents Windsor Park from Linfield FC to host international matches, said it "agreed in principle" to plans for the upgrade of the east Belfast stadium.

(PR/KMcA)