Leeds, Liverpool and Tranmere are among the many clubs in action over the weekend against national League opposition. Leeds will be the first of the big names into action when they take on Shelbourne at Tolka Park at 2.0 this afternoon.

United add £3.5 million signing David Hopkin to the squad, while Gary Kelly, Hopkin's new midfield partner Lee Bowyer and recently-signed striker Jimmy Floyd Hasslebaink will be amongst those likely to make an appearance.

Shelbourne manager Damien Richardson is still struggling to cope with a long list of injuries although Pat Scully, Dessie Baker and Mick Neville are all available again after missing earlier pre-season matches.

Richardson and Dr Tony O'Neill of UCD will each decide over the weekend which of their players to include in the combined 16-man panel which takes on Liverpool on Monday.

Former Manchester United star Paul Ince is likely to be in action for Roy Evans's side.

Saint Patrick's Athletic, meanwhile, have announced a special reduction in admission prices for this evening's game against John Aldridge's Tranmere Rovers. Tickets are £3 for adults and £1 for children. The game gets under way at 7.45 in Richmond Park.