Bohs boosted ahead of Drogheda clash

Bohemians desperately need a win to get back on track in the eircom League of Ireland Premier Division as they take on league leaders, Drogheda United at Dalymount Park tonight, kick-off 7.45pm.

The Bohs manager is in the enviable position of being able to pick from all his summer signings, an opportunity previously denied him by injuries and registration rules.

Republic of Ireland Under-21 caps, John Paul Kelly and Conor Powell both made substitute appearances in Germany in midweek and both have reported back fit.

First-choice defenders Dessie Byrne and Liam Burns return to the squad, having been omitted for the third round of the FAI Ford Cup.

Harpal Singh has been back training with the squad this week, but is still waiting on the green light from the specialists. He is at least one further week away from playing.

Bohs boss Sean Connor is an admirer of Drogheda, and views the game as a yardstick for his new-look Bohs team.

"I see this game as an opportunity to test ourselves against the league's top team," said Connor.

"I am satisfied that I am building a squad capable of competing for a title and I see this as an opportunity to test ourselves against a clinical and resolute United team.

"Drogheda have been very successful at beating the weaker teams in the division and they stick to their task doggedly.

"I think these abilities account for much of the difference between our two sides this season".

For Drogheda, an x-ray to Shane Robinsons’ badly bruised foot revealed no serious damage and rest is prescribed.

Similarly, Stuart Byrne, who shipped a heavy tackle in Monday night's draw with Galway, had his damaged fibula scanned and bad bruising was the diagnosis.

Jason Gavin, whose return to action has been unexpected and spectacular, has a dead leg and has not trained this week.

The only injury doubt for United is Richie Baker, who may be ruled out with a hamstring strain.

While the Drogs’ lead at the top is substantial, manager Paul Doolin will let them take nothing for granted and with such keen competition for places in the starting line-up the players themselves will have a point to prove.