League Preview: Derry City -v- Bohemians
Sadou Diallo has returned for Derry City Credit: Martin Doherty (ETPhotos)
DERRY CITY
Derry City are set to welcome Sadou Diallo back from injury when they host Bohemians on Friday night (kick-off is at 7.45pm).
The Candystripes drew twice last weekend – first away to Galway United and then were held to a 1-1 draw with Shelbourne on Monday night.
But they conceded late against the Reds after Paul McMullan gave City the lead.
“It was disappointing in the manner that it ended,” Derry boss Ruaidhri Higgins said.
“Brian didn’t have a save to make on the night. We controlled most of the game. The players are going to the well and giving everything.
“Diallo made his return and the minutes will be good for him. Patrick McEleney and Cameron Dummigan are getting closer but it remains to be seen if Friday night is too close for them.”
BOHEMIANS
Bohemians visit the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium on Friday night with a new assistant manager in situ as Stephen O’Donnell was appointed earlier this week.
The former Dundalk and St Patrick’s Athletic boss was sacked by Dundalk last month but has returned to the coaching scene already after an approach by Alan Reynolds at Bohemians.
“I can’t wait to get cracking” O’Donnell said.
“I’ve always had a good relationship with Alan, and the stars aligned in recent weeks with me leaving Dundalk and with Alan looking for a permanent assistant manager.
“I’ve great memories of my time here as a player, and I believe I’ve gained a lot of experience in my 18 years in the league as a player and a manager.
“I’ve watched from afar as Bohs have grown over the past number of years, and you can feel the potential that there is at the club.
“There is great scope to build on that potential here and to be successful under Alan.
"We have a lot of hard work to do to make that happen and that is a challenge I am really looking forward to being a part of.”
Bohs are likely to be without Brian McManus, James Talbot and Rob Cornwall for Friday’s fixture.
Referee: Robert Harvey.
PREDICTION
Derry City 2-0 Bohemians
Derry City
Injured: Patrick McEleney, Cameron Dummigan, Colm Whelan.
Doubtful: None.
Suspended: None.
Bohemians
Injured: James Talbot, Rob Cornwall, Brian McManus.
Doubtful: N/A.
Suspended: None.
