Derry City manager Declan Devine and his assistant Kevin Deery. (North Wwst Newspix)
The City boss said he was pleased to get a home game to start with but was quick to point out that his players would have to be ready to hit the ground running.
The first match is against UCD on Friday, February 15 with a 7.45 pm kick-off.
The Candystripes first away match is the following Friday, February 22, against Shamrock Rovers in Tallaght, Dublin with an 8 pm kick-off.
Devine told the club’s website derrycityfc.net: “Of course I’m happy that we start at the Brandywell, but we’re well aware that three of our first four games are against teams who finished in the European places last season.
“It’s going to be a real test for us but I honestly can’t wait to get started.
“There has been no let-up in the work going on to ensure that we have a squad of players who will give their all for this club and we will be ready for the challenge ahead.”
“We’ll be counting on the full backing of the club’s supporters to get behind us this season because a packed Brandywell can make a real difference.
The Derry boss refused to be drawn on current transfer news but did say that he was confident there would be several quality locally- based players added to his squad before the end of the month.
He has already brought in Peter Cherrie, Ally Gilchrist, Ciaran Coll, Jamie McDonagh, and Greg Sloggett.
