Devine anticipates difficult season

An FAI Cup win in season 2012 marked a successful season for Derry City and ahead of the 2013 campaign, manager Declan Devine spoke to Extratime.ieat the League Launch about his view on the season ahead.

“Looking forward to it. A much tougher season ahead for all of us. Especially with the addition of Limerick. All the top clubs have strengthened – Sligo Rovers will be a major threat as usual, Shamrock Rovers have added some seriously talented players, Drogheda United have built on an amazing job last year and St. Patrick’s Athletic have again brought in some real talent.

“It’s going to be a difficult campaign but one we’re really looking forward to and we’ll give it our best shot. We can’t wait to start.”

The Setanta Cup has involved many clubs in the Premier Division and Derry City are one of those, however, Devine admitted that the opening night of the league season is one they are aiming for.

“The season starts a little earlier for us with the Setanta Cup but Sligo Rovers on Friday is one we are really looking forward to. The league champions and the opener, it is all geared to being a quality match and good for the league.”

The former Candystripes goalkeeper also expressed his happiness at his transfer dealings, replacing those who have gone out but appeared even more chuffed with one player who stayed.

“I am very happy with the squad that we have but we have lost big players in Stephen McLaughlin and David McDaid – our top scorers from last season.  To bring in the players  that we have I am delighted.

“I am personally delighted we kept a hold of Simon Madden, a brilliant player despite interest from other clubs. Hopefully the players we brought in can step up to the mark and be given time to settle in properly.”