Blow for Derry City as Patrick McEleney out for six weeks
DERRY City will be hoping to get back to winning ways when they make the long trek to Longford on Saturday, May 2 (match live on BBC Radio Foyle from 7.30 pm).
The Candystripes will be looking to bounce back from last week’s defeat by Bohemians.
But the task against Longford has been made that bit more difficult with injuries and suspensions.
Captain Ryan McBride is suspended, while Patrick McEleney is ruled out with a torn groin.
Midfielder Philip Lowry is also a major injury doubt with a groin strain.
“These are all big players for us and Patrick is expected to be out for about six weeks so that is a blow,” said Derry City Manager Peter Hutton.
“Having said that, it gives other players a chance to stake their claim and get a run of games.”
With Anthony Elding having been dropped to the bench for the last two league games and Cillian Morrison featuring as a substitute, both players will have an opportunity to impress in the absence of the influential McEleney.
“We should have beaten Bohs but we became a bit anxious and lost our way, and then dominated the second half.
“We created a fair few chances last week but their goalkeeper was excellent and we had a ‘goal’ ruled out for offside.”
But Hutton is under no illusions about the task ahead on Saturday.
“Longford come into the match on the back of a convincing 3-0 win away to Drogheda,” explains Hutton.
“And for a team just promoted from the First Division they have vast experience in their ranks.”
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