Shelbourne v Dundalk FC: Preview

Shelbourne v Dundalk FC

Friday 3 July 2026

Tolka Park, 8pm

Dundalk aim to bounce back from last week's defeat to Waterford with a trip to Tolka Park to take on Shelbourne. Dundalk are boosted by the new signing of Trevor Clarke, who comes straight into the squad for the game.

Manager Comments from Ciaran Kilduff

"Obviously the last couple of months we've been on a good run but getting beaten last week by Waterford after taking the lead is something we'll look to respond and react positively to.

"Shelbourne themselves have obviously had a change of manager, and you know, a really top team getting ready to go into European football. We know how tough this task is going to be, but we'll prepare and do everything we can to try and win this game.

"We've beaten them in Tolka Park and they've beaten us at Oriel, there's been nothing really between the two teams, which you could say about a lot of teams in the division this year, so it should make for a really good game.

"Much like the Louth side doing so well, we want to keep our positivity and upwards trajectory going. Making a good account of ourselves on Friday night is something we look to do, and continue the momentum within the county.

"Obviously the signing and arrival of Trevor Clarke is a huge positive for us. He should come straight into contention for Friday night. He's a huge addition — someone I'm delighted to have at the club, someone with so much experience over the years and still only 28, coming into his peak years. He's another player who's really determined and hungry to make a big impact, and we're delighted to welcome him.

"I'm happy with our lot at the minute. We need to just keep the momentum going, we won't get too high or too low about any individual result. I think we're all happy with the account we've given of ourselves so far this season, and we're trying to keep that going for Friday night."

Team News

• Trevor Clarke joins the squad

• Declan McDaid returns from suspension

• JR Wilson returns from illness

• Mayowa Animasahun has improved after his appearance last week.

• Harvey Warren, Danny Mullen, Norman Garbett and Conor O'Keeffe remain unavailable