Limerick 37 have received their licence to play First Division football in Ireland next season.  A new entity in the city following Limerick FC's demise, the licence will be ratified by the FAI's First Instance Committee at its next meeting on February 19th.

The FAI now has 22 licensed clubs to play in the new League of Ireland this coming season, with competition getting under way on March 9th.

Wexford Youths, fronted by construction magnate Mick Wallace, secured their licence to play in the 10-team First Division earlier this week.

League director Fran Gavin believes it important there will be an ongoing soccer presence in Limerick.

"Those involved with Limerick 37 represent all strands of the game so there will be plenty of interaction between the club and the rest of the football community in the Limerick area," he said.

Former Republic of Ireland international Paul McGee was recently appointed the club's first manager and the team will play its home games at Jackman Park on Fridays.

"I hope to develop a squad that can carry the flag for Limerick in the First Division," said McGee, a former Shamrock Rovers, QPR and Burnley striker.

A High Court ruling last week upheld the FAI's decision not to grant Danny Drew's Limerick FC a licence and consequently Limerick 37 were always hopeful of securing their own permit.