Dublin four in League debuts

Dublin have named four newcomers for their first League game against Tyrone in Parnell Park on Sunday

Dublin have named four newcomers for their first League game against Tyrone in Parnell Park on Sunday. Dual under-21 player Shane Ryan is named at corner back and Na Fianna defender Thomas Lynch is named at wing-back.

Paul Croft, who made his Championship debut against Kildare in the summer, lines out at half-back and Mick O'Keefe, who has shown consistent accuracy for Kilmacud Crokes, gets his opportunity to shine from corner forward.

All-Ireland champions Galway have delayed naming their team to face Leitrim until Saturday evening. Players such as Sean de Paor and Sean O Domhnaill are involved in the county semi-final between Salthill and Carraroe.

With fatigue and injuries a concern, John O'Mahony decided at training on Wednesday night that he would await the outcome of that semi-final before finalising his fifteen. However, he did confirm that he has not extended the panel beyond the All-Ireland squad, so his team should bear a familiar look.

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Two players from Donegal county champions Aodh Ruadh make their senior competitive debuts in Ballybofey against Armagh on Sunday.

Barry Ward forms a new midfield combination with Bun doran's James Ruane and Michael Ward has been named at corner-forward. With Brendan Devenney and Brian Roper, Michael Ward completes an extremely fast front three.

Jim McGuinness plays at wingfoward, despite recurring back trouble.

Monaghan forward Declan Smyth begins his League season on the bench as Eamon McEneaney looks to new blood. Padraig McKenna, Paul O'Connor and Keith McGonnell each make their debuts at senior level against Laois.

Tyrone minor player Richard Thornton has earned his first start at right corner forward for the match against Dublin and 22year-old Paul McGurk makes his debut at right corner-back. Peter Canavan and Brian Dooher both passed fitness tests and Gerard Cavlan partners Fergal Logan at midfield.

The Laois County football Board will manage the senior team on Sunday, as they are yet to appoint a manager.

Interviews will be held through to next Tuesday, when it is hoped to that the appointment will be approved at an executive meeting. It is believed that five candidates are in the running including previous manager Michael Dempsey.

Board chairman Dickie Miller, secretary Ollie Byrne and executive board member Michael Bolton will supervise the side on Sunday.

League champions Offaly are joint fifth favourite to retain their title. Their neighbours Meath have been installed as 5 to 1 favourites by Paddy Power Bookmakers, with Kerry and All-Ireland champions Galway at 6 to 1. Dublin are offered at 7 to 1. Ulster champions Derry are placed at 8 to 1, as are Donegal, Kildare, Mayo and Offaly.

Last year's semi-finalists Monaghan are outsiders at 16 to 1.

Keith Duggan

Keith Duggan

Keith Duggan is Washington Correspondent of The Irish Times