Richardson defiant ahead of Bohs' visit

Cork City will be looking to leap-frog Bohemians in the eircom League Premier Division table as they welcome the Gypsies to Turner's Cross tonight (kick-off 7.45pm).

The only injury absentees for City are defender Seán Kelly, who is still recovering from a fractured cheekbone, and Colm Carroll who is continuing his rehabilitation after a cruciate ligament operation.

The "FIFA Two" of Gareth Farrelly and Colin Healy are still awaiting a verdict from the Court of Arbitration for Sport, but other than that, manager Damien Richardson has a full strength squad to choose from.

Richardson has backed his players to recover from last week’s heavy defeat and get their title challenge back on track.

"I don’t need to instil in any of my players the importance of this game," said te City boss.

"My players are experienced and professional enough to understand the necessity of bouncing back from the performance and result in Sligo last Saturday.

"I have complete confidence and faith in all of my players, and I back every single one of them to the hilt. They know that a good performance and positive result is required against Bohemians.

"Games against Bohemians are always one of the most eagerly anticipated here in Cork. As a club, the style of football they play is always appealing, and games between the two clubs have always been close encounters based on the true spirit of the game.

"The combination of all of these factors make this game not to be missed."

With injury concerns easing up, Bohs boss Sean Connor welcomes back Dessie Byrne after his substitute appearance last week and also Mark Rossiter and Fergal Harkin who resumed training.

Harpal Singh (shoulder) and Dean Pooley (ankle) are the only absentees from the squad.

Connor emphasised that the return of Dessie Byrne was particularly timely: "I will probably start Dessie as his experience and maturity will be critical as 'The Cross' is never any easy place to go.

"His versatility in defence and midfield positions is also a key factor as it makes it possible to retain Conor Powell, who stepped up to the mark in recent weeks, in the starting line up," said Connor.