Graham Cummins: Candystripes ahead of schedule but still need to sweeten their deals

Green light to spend: Derry City manager Ruaidhrí Higgins arrives for the SSE Airtricity League Premier Division match between Shamrock Rovers and Derry City at Tallaght Stadium in Dublin. Pic: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile
Despite having the backing of billionaire chairman Philip O’Doherty, their location handicaps Derry City when it comes to attracting players. Manager Ruaidhrí Higgins suggested that the club could be in market to add to the squad this summer after seeing his slide slip further behind league leaders Shamrock Rovers following the 1-0 defeat to Stephen Bradley’s side last week. But it will require O’Doherty to dig into his deep pockets if Higgins wants to attract the best players.
Right now when it comes to recruitment, Rovers will be the most attractive club for the best players in the league (apart from Derry natives). The Hoops are based in Dublin, have a large support base, are able to offer Champions League football and will be able to negotiate similar salaries to Derry.