League Preview: Derry City - v - Longford Town

DERRY CITY

Derry City return to league action this week, after a week break, following Shamrock Rovers’ European tie last Thursday.

The supporters will be hoping for a good response from their side after a 5-0 defeat to Dundalk a couple of weeks ago at the Brandywell.

Captain Ryan McBride will miss the game through suspension. Harry Monaghan and Gareth McGlynn are still out through injury, but Nathan Boyle, who was struggling with a calf injury should be in the squad.

It's not all bad news though for Derry City as they managed to extend Barry McNamee's contract for another year during the week.

The Donegal man has been a bright spark in the young Derry side, netting twice in the league this season.

Speaking to the club's official website after the news, manager Kenny Shiels was delighted.

"Barry’s been fantastic for us this season. He’s a key player and he’s one that I see a really good future for at this club, and it’s important to get players like Barry signed up," he said.

"We’ll be talking to the other lads in the coming weeks and Barry is the first one, so it’s great to have him over the line and we’ll be speaking to the others after the Longford game.”

A wonder goal from Patrick McClean in April secured a point for the Candystripes against the Midlands side and Kenny Shiels is hoping for all three points, but knows it won’t be easy.

“To be honest it’s a tough game and we know that; they are fighting for their lives so we have to make sure that we are ready for it,” Shiels admitted.

“They were unlucky not to get a point against Dundalk recently, they got three goals at Dundalk, so we know it’s going to be very hard for us.”

LONGFORD TOWN

Longford Town travel to Derry looking for their first win in their last eight attempts at the Brandywell.

Manager Tony Cousins has come under significant pressure in recent weeks; as fans unveiled a 'Cousins out' banner after defeat to Bohemians two weeks ago.

If Cousins’ side are to escape the drop then they have to improve and quickly.

An impressive response against Dundalk saw Longford fight back three times, the first time the Champions conceded three goals this season.

But it still wasn't enough as Dundalk scored deeper into injury time to win the game 4-3 and take all three points. A bitter pill for Longford to swallow, who haven’t been prolific in front of goal this season, but signs of improvements showed against Dundalk.

There could be life in Longford yet and they’ll be hoping to take the positives to the Brandywell and get their first win since the opening day of the season.

Longford have signed defender Yann Mvita Nkelu from French side Coulommiers Brie, who should be in the squad in time for tomorrow’s game.

Referee: Robert Harvey

MATCH FACTS

Longford Town haven’t won at the Brandywell in their last eight attempts.

The two sides drew 1-1 in April.

Longford Town have only won one game all season.

BETTING

Derry City 1/3; Draw 17/4; Longford Town 7/1.

PREDICTION

Derry City 2-0 Longford Town

Derry City

Injured: Gareth McGlynn and Harry Monaghan.

Doubtful: Nathan Boyle.

Suspended: Ryan McBride.

Longford Town

Injured: Unknown.

Doubtful: Unknown.

Suspended: Unknown.