Brian McIver says Derry are looking forward to getting back to Croke Park this weekend.

The Oak Leafers will make their first appearance at GAA headquarters since defeating Westmeath in the Allianz League Division 2 final almost 12 months ago when they face Mayo for a place in the Division 1 decider on Sunday.

"The pace of the game in Croke Park, the surface is totally different to anywhere else," the Derry boss noted in the Irish Daily Star.

"We got a run out on it last year in the National League (Division 2) final and we were very keen to get back to it as quick as possible. We're looking forward to next Sunday and another part of the learning process.

"We were delighted to get to the semi-final because we knew it was going to give us an opportunity to get back playing in Croke Park again. For a young side developing, that was very important. What happened (against Mayo last Sunday) will be totally irrelevant.

"They're in the top two teams in the country. It's another great challenge, but what would you rather be doing next Sunday?" Tweet

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