Devenny set to make speedy return for Donegal

DONEGAL manager Brian McEniff is expected to name Finn Harps star Brendan Devenny when he selects his side later in the week for next Sunday’s Allianz NFL clash with Dublin at Ballyshannon.

Devenny, a gifted forward, finished his soccer season with Harps last week and is poised to make a speedy return to the gaelic football scene in view of Donegal’s dismal showing against rampant Galway in Tuam last Sunday.

McEniff read the riot act to his players after their poor showing and warned that heads will roll for the game against the Dubs, who were equally unimpressive in going down to All-Ireland champions Armagh at Croke Park.

Dublin won’t announce their team until Thursday night but manager Tommy Lyons could be tempted to throw the vastly talented Alan Brogan in at the deep end. Brogan, who impressed greatly last season, underwent a cartilage operation before Christmas and his absence was keenly felt last Sunday.

With Seamus O’Neill still out of the equation after undergoing surgery for a knee injury Roscommon are unlikely to make any change from the side that pipped title-holders Tyrone on Sunday last.

Manager Tommy Carr, who was thrilled with his side’s gutsy performance is due to name his team tonight and is certain to include corner forward Francie Grehan, who made a fine comeback from injury against Tyrone.

Joe Considine, who made a welcome return to the Clare colours last weekend, is in line for a starting position on the Banner County side for next Sunday’s visit of Derry to Cusack Park, Ennis.

Considine, who opted out last season to concentrate on his hurling career, was introduced as a substitute, when midfield player Ger Quinlan was forced to retire with a shoulder injury, during the course of Clare’s comprehensive triumph over Tipperary at Ardfinnan and turned in a fine performance.

With Quinlan likely to be fit, and Considine expected to start, the Clare selectors could leave out either of last season’s minor players, Rory Donnelly or Alan Clohessy.

This game could mark the return of Ulster interprovincial representative Sean Martin Lockhart to the Derry team. The teak-tough defender has been out of action for the past seven months with a shoulder injury but has regained full fitness.

Mayo, who pipped neighbours Sligo in a thriller last Sunday, will be short their five Crossmolina

players James Nallen, Michael Moyles, Paul McGuinness, Kieran McDonald and Liam Moffet for next Sunday's League tie with Down in Newry.

However, full back David Healy, who missed the Sligo match because of injury has the green light to play.

Laois report no injury problems ahead of next Sunday’s game with Fermanagh at Portlaoise.