Colin Healy: 'This is the toughest First Division in many, many years'

Return to action 'can't come quick enough' Colin Healy said ahead of derby clash with Cobh Ramblers

Cork City manager Colin Healy during a pre-season game against Waterford. Picture: INPHO/Laszlo Geczo

Colin Healy says Cork City are facing into the toughest First Division in many years as they bid to rebuild following last year’s relegation.

City open their first campaign in the second tier since 2011 with a Cork derby at home to Cobh Ramblers on Friday (Turners Cross, 7.45pm). They are the bookies’ joint-fourth favourites for the title, alongside UCD, behind Shelbourne, Galway United, and Bray Wanderers.