Rovers players 'must earn' place to face Real

LEAGUE OF IRELAND PREVIEWS:SHAMROCK ROVERS boss Michael O'Neill admits that the thought of taking on some of the game's biggest stars in Monday's friendly against Real Madrid has the potential to be a distraction for some of his players but insists they must first earn their place in the team by performing against Sligo Rovers at Tolka Park this evening.

After the uncertainty over the day the game would be played and then the venue change, O’Neill acknowledges that his side’s preparations have not been ideal but, he says, the Real match may provide a little extra motivation for a team that has been consistently impressive over the last couple of months.

“Monday hasn’t affected my thinking or our preparations for this game for one second but I know the lads would like to play against Real. We’ve got to use that to our advantage and say to them that; ‘well, you’ve got to earn your place by doing well this evening’.”

Rovers have Sean O’Connor suspended and Sean Webb out while Sligo, who have been battling injury problems all season, will also be without Danny Ventre and Conor O’Grady, both of whom are banned.

Bohemians have Owen Heary back from suspension for the visit of Derry City tomorrow night while Anto Murphy came through his late appearance against Salzburg without any problems and Jason McGuinness continues to progress towards full fitness.

Pat Fenlon was waiting last night to see if Graham Carey would be rejoining the club on loan from Celtic and said that if the youngster’s return is not sorted out over the weekend then he will drop his interest in him.

Derry have Clive Delaney suspended while Liam Kearney, Mark McChrystal and Kevin Deery are still out.

Premier Division

Today – Shamrock Rovers v Sligo Rovers, Tolka Park, 7pm. Tomorrow – Bohemians v Derry City, Dalymount Park, 7pm.

First Division

Today – Longford Town v Mervue United, Flancare Park, 7.45pm; Finn Harps v Athlone Town, Finn Park, 8pm. Tomorrow – Monaghan United v Waterford United, Kingspan Century Park, 3pm; Kildare County v Limerick FC, Station Road, 7.30pm.