Preview: Shamrock Rovers v Dundalk FC

Dundalk travel to Tallaght Stadium on Friday night to take on reigning Champions and league leaders Shamrock Rovers. The match is live on Virgin Media Two. Kick off: 8pm. Ciarán Kilduff Comments:

"We're looking forward to the challenge of facing the champions, the league leaders and a side that continue to set the standard in Irish football. We have a huge amount of respect for Shamrock Rovers and what they've achieved, but our focus will be on making the best account of ourselves, just as we've tried to do every week this season.

"We know what we're capable of. We beat Rovers in our last home meeting and picked up a draw in Tallaght earlier in the campaign, so if we reach the levels we know we can, we're confident we can give them a real test. At the same time, we understand the magnitude of the task that lies ahead.

"There were plenty of positives to take from last week's performance. We felt we controlled large periods of the game and were disappointed not to come away with the win, but football moves quickly and there's no bigger game to focus on than Shamrock Rovers away.

"We've picked up a few injury setbacks, with Tyreke Wilson's recovery taking a little longer than expected and Shane Tracy also dealing with a back problem, while J.R. Wilson and Danny Mullen remain unavailable. However, we've strengthened the squad during the transfer window and there are players ready to step in and take their opportunity.

"The players are looking forward to it. It should be a great occasion in Tallaght and we're excited for the challenge."

Team News

• Egor Vassenin is unavailable due to the terms of his loan agreement.

• Shane Tracey is absent due to a bank injury.

• A negative scan result has delayed Tyreke Wilson's return.

• JR Wilson, Danny Mullen, Norman Garbett and Harvey Warren continue their rehabilitation.