Dundalk could be handed a title lifeline if Sligo Rovers are found guilty of fielding an ineligible player in their recent win over the Lilywhites.
Adam McDonnell played in the Bit O’Red’s 2-0 win over the Lilywhites at the Showgrounds last Monday night - but the FAI say he was suspended.
Sligo Rovers will fight the charge after claiming they “received contradictory communication from the FAI” on the alleged suspension.
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An FAI statement read: “The Disciplinary Control Unit of the Football Association of Ireland has charged Sligo Rovers FC with fielding a suspended player in their SSE Airtricity Premier Division game on Monday, August 29th.
“The charge will be heard by the independent Disciplinary Committee of the Football Association of Ireland this week and the decision will be communicated to Sligo Rovers.”
Dundalk are currently third in the table, six points off leaders Shamrock Rovers having played two games more.
And Stephen O’Donnell’s men are two points adrift of second placed Derry City, having played a game more than the Candystripes.
If Sligo Rovers - who are still pushing for European football - are deemed guilty of fielding a suspended player, Dundalk will be awarded a 3-0 win.
But a Sligo Rovers statement read: “We wish to inform supporters of a notice received to appear before the FAI Disciplinary Control Unit this week
“It arises out of Adam McDonnell’s appearance against Dundalk when allegedly suspended.
“The potential sanction of an adverse finding is an overturning of the result.
“The club received contradictory communications from the FAI on Adam’s possible suspension.
“Legal advice has been taken and the club will be represented at the hearing. A further update will follow when available."
