DERRY City manager Declan Devine has a full squad to select from for Friday night’s north west derby against Finn Harps at the Brandywell.
RTÉ are showing the game live and Devine wants his men to put on a show for the cameras.
The Candystripes lost 1-0 to Dundalk last weekend in their season opener as Dane Massey netted the only goal of the game for champions Dundalk at Oriel Park.
Devine’s troops have come through unscathed and are raring to go.
“Thankfully everyone has reported back fit and firing after the Dundalk game,” he said.
“I thought the boys were excellent against the best team in the country last weekend, especially considering it was their first competitive game together. We will get better as a group in the coming weeks and months.”
Devine has recruited the likes of Stephen Mallon, Adam Liddle, Moussa Bakayoko, Tim Nilsen and Danny Lupano.
He said: ‘I’m happy with our squad and really pleased with where we’re at after a very productive pre-season. We’re excited about this year and we can’t wait to get out there on Friday night.
“Friday should be a great occasion with hopefully a full house as well as live TV. I’m hoping our supporters turn out in big numbers so that the new players get a flavour of what it’s like to play in this unique atmosphere.”
Harps overcame Sligo Rovers 1-0 on Friday and the derby has added spice with Ollie Horgan having recently signed 2019 Derry City captain Barry McNamee.
Devine said: “I’ve said before that I’ve never been involved in an easy derby and I don’t think that will change this weekend. Harps will be keen to build on their good start but we only need to focus on ourselves.”
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