UCD look to bounce back at Drogs

Drogheda United host UCD in this evening's eircom League of Ireland Premier Division clash at United Park, kick-off 7.45pm.

United are still missing a number of players, including long-term absentees Brian Shelley and Shane Barrett.

Also missing for United are Graham Gartland, Richie Baker while Eamon Zayed is doubtful.

Dan Connor and Declan O'Brien both returned to training this week, while Shane Robinson and Paul Keegan featured in the defeat to Cork City on Tuesday night so they may play a part tonight.

Boss Paul Doolin is upbeat about his side's performances this season, but admits they need to start putting their chances away.

He said: "We've played well and at times. I think we're just missing that cutting edge in front of goal. But I think if we keep creating the chances, our goals will come."

New striker Fahrudin Kuduzovic should be available and Doolin is delighted with the signing.

He added: "Faz is a very good player. We're delighted to have him on board. He'll give us something a little bit different up front, a different dimension."

UCD welcome back Paul Byrne to the squad as he returns from injury.

The Students also hope to have recently re-signed midfielder Shane McFaul cleared in time to play against Paul Doolin’s charges.

Defender Conor Kenna is doubtful for the game as he is currently ill, while midfielder Shane Fitzgerald is definitely out due to a knee injury.

Pete Mahon said he was disappointed with his side’s performances in recent weeks.

The Students have been knocked out of both Cup competitions in the past fortnight, most recently falling to Wexford Youths in the League Cup.

Mahon said: "We should be capable of beating Wexford. We’ve lost at home twice to First Division sides recently and we are going to have to get better.

"It will get better. Drogheda are missing a few players and we always do well up there so I’m expecting a better performance."