Derry look set to give Eoin Bradley, James Kielt, Dermot McBride, Carlus McWilliams and Fergal Doherty their first starts of the league on Saturday night against Ulster rivals Tyrone.

Desperate to get some points on the board, manager Brian McIver's hand is weakened by the absence of established stars such as Chrissy McKaigue, Gerard O'Kane, Patsy Bradley and Mark Lynch.

"The fact that certain players are out means that the door will open to others and as always we know that they will give their best," McIver outlined to The Belfast Telegraph.

Oak Leaf spokesman Dermot McPeake echoed those sentiments.

"There is pride at stake. The Derry players are ready to rise to the occasion and while we have a few of our most experienced players unavailable, we have others who are more than capable of stepping in.

"Tyrone will have taken heart from their win over Mayo and they will be at home but our players are familiar with Healy Park and they won't be put out by that."

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