ONLY days after Tivoli Gardens FC announced they were unlikely to contest the 2014-15 Premier League due to funding constraints, there was an about-turn with news circulating yesterday that the club will participate in the new season, expected to begin early September.

The Jamaica Observer was unable to make contact with either club President Edward Seaga or team manager Brian Rose, but yesterday assistant coach Alvin Shaw confirmed that the way is paved for Tivoli Gardens to bid for yet another national title.

“Everything is straightened out and we will be in the competition. We start training this evening,” Shaw said in an enthusiastic tone.

“I’m relieved, most definitely. It’s my first real coaching job, and I’ve been here four years. I’ve developed a love for the club and for the people of the community. The club is close to my heart,” he added.

Tivoli Gardens FC is one of the nation’s better-run clubs, most recently winning the Premier League in the 2010-11 season. The local football fraternity, including Tivoli’s players, fans and other stakeholders were taken aback with the announcement the club may withdraw from top-flight football.

But yesterday, the Observer team witnessed a few players trickling in for a gym session at the club house. The playing surface was covered with thick clumps of grass in some areas, but is expected to be cut in time for on-field practice this week.

Meanwhile, Shaw said it represents a late start to preseason practice for Tivoli, who historically commence their preparation training in late July.

Shaw was assistant to head coach Glendon ‘Admiral’ Bailey up to last season, but the latter announced his retirement towards the end of the campaign. According to Shaw, the club is yet to name Bailey’s successor.

“There hasn’t been any announcement. For the time being, I’m the one running the programme. I don’t know what the future plans are,” he said.