Under-23 panel understrength

THE Bohemians manager, Turlough O'Connor, has been unable to name his strongest squad for next week's under-23 match between the National league and the Football League of Wales.

None of the first team regulars from the FAI Cup semi finalists are available for the game.

All four sides would have expected to have been heavily represented in the panel of 16 as they have also been the leading teams in the championship. Instead just two Bohemians players, goalkeeper Michael Dempsey and midfielder Jonathan Prizeman, have been included for the game which takes place at St Colman's Park on Tuesday evening. The Welsh will bring a full strength squad.

With the possibility of a tour for the under 21s O'Connor decided it was better to give the underage side another run out together.

Byrnes development into one of the best midfielders in the League is rewarded with a place in the squad. Several players like Dempsey, Cork's Gareth Cronin and Stephen Napier of Dundalk retain their places.