Injuries and suspensions hit Derry City

A full-strength Dundalk host Derry City in this evening's eircom League of Ireland Premier Division clash at Oriel Park.

The Lilywhites have no injury or suspension concerns and they have completed the signings of Michael Collins and Alex Williams, however, they need international clearance before they can play.

Dundalk captain Thomas Heary knows that his side are far from safe in their bid to avoid the drop in their first season back in the Premier Division since 2002.

Heary said: "The league is still tight. We're only five points off bottom, which is not a lot. It’s ten points up to fourth, so we need to bridge that gap.

"We don’t really want to be looking behind us but obviously you would be wary of teams behind you, but we’ve got to look forward - our aim is to move up.”

Derry will be without Kevin Deery, Barry Molloy and Liam Kearney through injury, while Clive Delaney, Gareth McGlynn and Stephen Gray are all suspended.

City boss Stephen Kenny said: "Obviously with the injuries and suspensions that we have it will be a challenge, but we have been very consistent of late keeping six clean sheets in a row.

"Dundalk are in good form themselves. They've improved as this season has progressed and had a very good win in Cork. We've been playing well ourselves and it has all the makings of a good game.

"I've been pleased with Ger O'Brien since he returned from injury, he's settled in well since his arrival from Rovers and his form at right back has given us a boost."