Doolin drooling on European chances

Drogheda manager Paul Doolin is convinced summer football has improved the Republic of Ireland’s fortunes on the European stage.

Having guided Drogheda into the Champions League for the first time in their history last term, Doolin now knows victory in their two-legged tussle with Levadia Tallinn will earn a mouth-watering second qualifying round tie against Dynamo Kiev.

And he feels his side’s added fitness will be a major benefit against a side who are also in the middle of their season.

“You could argue it is no real advantage given Levadia are also playing but overall the benefit is huge,” said Doolin.

“One of the major reasons for the change in the first place was the lack of success Irish clubs had in Europe.

“There is a big difference now and I don’t think it is a coincidence.”

Drogheda’s superior seeding means they are favourites to progress, although Doolin intends to watch Levadia first hand to make sure his side are fully prepared.

Linfield can look forward to a glamour tie with Dinamo Zagreb but history suggests it will be the Northern Irish side’s last match in the competition.

While Dinamo may only boast one member of the Croatia squad that performed so creditably at Euro 2008, they have just sold Luka Modric to Tottenham for £16million, offering an indication of the standard they are capable of.

It should be too much for Linfield, although with the first leg at Windsor Park at least they should attract a healthy crowd.

Former TNS coach Ken McKenna can expect a call from Peter Nicholas after Llanelli were paired with Ventspils.

TNS were beaten on away goals by the Latvians at the same stage of last season’s competition and Nicholas is determined Llanelli will avoid a repeat after winning the Welsh title for the first time last term.

“I know Ken well, so I am sure he can have a constructive input,” said Nicholas.

“As a club we have made giant strides in the last few years and we want that to continue.”

Llanelli have confirmed the first leg will be played at their Stebonheath Park ground on Tuesday, July 15.