Frost a doubt for Waterford

Waterford United could go into today's FAI Cup final against holders Longford Town without left-back John Frost, which could mean both clubs missing their captains at Lansdowne Road this afternoon (4.45pm).

Longford skipper Barry Ferguson is absent through suspension and Frost faces a late fitness test to rescue an injury-blighted season.

As FAI officials continue to argue in public, its showpiece game of the season has the opportunity to put Irish club football in a better light.

Waterford could also be without fellow defender Pat Purcell, although player-manager Alan Reynolds is confident the centre-back will pass fit.

With Ferguson out of the reckoning, League Cup winners Longford will attempt to close out a cup double with Graham Gartland partnering Sean Dillon in central defence.

The duo will have to deal with in-form and in-demand Waterford striker Daryl Murphy, the Republic of Ireland Under 21 international, attracting the attention of both Manchester City and Leeds United.

Murphy is likely to link with Willie Bruton in an attack for the Blues' first FAI Cup final appearance in 18 years.