Rooney, Brennan to be un-Laoised

Sidelined Laois duo Darren Rooney and Barry Brennan have set their sights on a return against Derry in Saturday's fourth round qualifier clash.

Rooney showed no ill-effects of the toe injury he sustained in the Leinster final defeat to Dublin when lining out for the midlanders' hurlers last weekend.

Having trained with Mick O'Dwyer's footballers 24 hours later, the full-back should be included in the Laois team which is announced tonight.

Bustling attacker Brennan, 23, could also figure in O'Dwyer's plans after shaking off the hamstring pull that forced him off at half-time against the Dubs, over two weeks ago.

Derry boss Mickey Moran is expecting a tough battle come Saturday.

"Laois were Leinster champions a couple of years ago and have been there or thereabouts for the past few years. They are very familiar with Croke Park, have lots of experience and will enjoy huge support. It is not going to be easy," he said.