While Derry and Bohemians kick off their European campaigns this evening, Shelbourne manager Damien Richardson is looking to make a couple of late signings in Britain to see him through the Cup Winners' Cup clash against Kilmarnock.
A remarkable run of injuries has hit the Tolka Park club, with Pat Morley out until next year due to a cruciate ligament problem, John O'Rourke's career in jeopardy as a result of a bone disorder in his knee, Stephen Geoghegan suffering from pneumonia and Greg Costello, Brian Flood, Dave Campbell and Alan Gough all struggling to battle their way back after minor injuries.
The prospect of having to travel to Scotland without Geoghegan and Morley, the most prolific strike force in the National League Premier Division last season, is of most immediate concern to Richardson. He is hoping to hire in some cover to help him get through the August 14th fixture.
"Hopefully, Stephen will be better by then, but it might be asking a bit much of him to throw him into action so soon after an illness like this," said Richardson yesterday. "It's not a good time to be trying to sign somebody, because everybody is just getting their squad together for the season, but I'm hoping the prospect of some European experience will help me to pick up a striker and possibly a midfielder before the August 1st deadline."
Dundalk manager Eddie May hopes to complete the signing of former Waterford United centre half Tony Hall and Welshman Nathan Wiff this morning. The pair travelled to Oriel Park in order to play for Dundalk against Raith Rovers last night and May said that he was close to finalising deals with both players. The former Cardiff City manager may also pick up three Russian players over the coming weeks. A Dundalk director, Larissa Viktorovna, has put the club in contact with several prospective signings at her local club in Kemerovo, Siberia.
Former manager Jim McLaughlin and director Brendan Watters travelled to Russia to see the players and have recommended three to May who says that, from what he has seen on video, he would be interested in bringing them over. "There is a lot of paperwork involved, though. So, while it would be a bonus, we have to get on with what we are doing at the moment."
Liverpool have confirmed that Paul Ince, their recent £4.5 million signing from Inter Milan, will be in the squad for Monday's friendly against a combined UCD/ Shelbourne squad at Tolka Park. Tickets are available from HMV, Ticketline and usual outlets. Cash will also be taken on the night.
