IRISH LEAGUE: Stability key for Pat McGibbon as he takes up the reins at Portadown

Pat McGibbon (right) with former boss Ronnie McFall

The Shamrock Park giants are still reeling from Ronnie McFall’s resignation last Saturday following a shock 3-2 defeat to Lurgan Celtic in the Irish Cup.

And then it was reported on Thursday that the club could be facing a penalty of automatic relegation from the Premiership over an alleged breach of wage payment rules.

It has been a tumultuous week for the Mid Ulster outfit, and caretaker boss McGibbon is hoping some stability can be found in the remaining weeks of the season.

“We have nine games left this season, and I just want to see the players gel together and give it everything they have got,” McGibbon said.

“I understand a few of them have signed pre-contracts with other clubs, but we just want to see some pride in the Portadown shirt.

“The players know it hasn’t been good enough this season, and the fans want to see 100 per cent effort on the pitch.”

Despite the recent upheaval at Shamrock Park, McGibbon insists his main focus is on events on the field of play.

“There has been upheaval in recent days, and I know the club have issued a statement with regards some newspaper reports, but I can just concentrate on the playing side of things,” McGibbon added.

“I have to get the lads well prepared for Saturday and try and get a positive result. That is the primary focus for me at this moment in time.”