Rovers go into the game with doubts over a number of players and the size of Paul Cook’s squad makes the challenge even harder. Conor O’ Grady and Adam Hughes are definitely out due to suspension so the starting midfield is a big talking point in the run up to the game.

“We want to be strong and we want be solid. When you lose Adam and Conor you are losing two strong physical midfield players.. It is a difficult one, very difficult. People might pick a different midfield or team to what I am going to pick but in the end you don’t have a choice. But like I always want to be able to guarantee is that we are going to Bohemians to win and to have a right go. I want our supporters to clap us off at the end because we can’t give anymore and when fans see players play like I think that they are always happy.”

The previous fixtures against Bohs this year have seen supporters create a hostile atmosphere because of the controversy that surrounded Sean Connor’s reign and departure. Cook is hoping that the fans concentrate on their own team instead of getting caught up in the past.

“I just want our fans to be real. I don’t want every game against Bohemians to be about a vendetta again Sean Connor. I want our fans to concentrate on supporting Sligo Rovers and what we’re trying to do.”

Rovers’ last game was 2-1 victory over a stubborn UCD side and prior to the game the manager described it as “must win”. Cook sees this game differently and with all the teams competing for the Euro spots set to play each other in the closing stages of the league season the stakes are slightly lower

“It’s completely different. We have 7 games to go and don’t forget that Cork and St Pats both come to the Showgrounds. Somewhere along the line we have to win football games. The more you win out of the seven the better. Obviously with our injuries and suspensions we’re going to Bohs on Friday and all we guarantee is that we are going to have a go. When you get down to thirteen players its gets difficult. Some players will have to play injured and in the latter stages they don’t half struggle for fitness. But what we are trying to do over a period of time is build a side and add competition for places. That’s what you want. You want a winning team with players playing well and the team picking itself. “


Bohemians vs Sligo Rovers this Friday at Dalymount Park. Kick off 7.45pm

Rovers supporters buses info: 0872186351

By Rory Houston