Having named his new look squad earlier in the week, Derry manager Damian McErlain is looking forward to running the rule over many players during the McKenna Cup.

Wednesday, January 3rd see the competitive season begin for the Oakleafers and McErlain has stressed to the Derry Journal that many players will get the chance to impress during the early season competition.

"We will be utilising many of the U20 panel for those McKenna Cup games for sure," said McErlain. "That would have been our approach from the start. The county is bursting with young talent and the door is always open. Others have used that approach in the past and we think it's a good balance. We can mix some experience with youth."

McErlain has set out his targets for the coming year also with the first aim to being competitive in the league where they will ply their trade in Division Three.

"That's obviously our immediate target, to be competitive in the league. We've assembled a fresh new panel. We've been delighted with the reaction of the players and the support we've received so far.

"Energy levels are high and that's what we want. 2018 is just around the corner and we can't wait to get going."

Tweet

Most Read Stories