Dundalk v Kildare County

First Division leaders Dundalk will be without joint top scorer Paul Crowley for the visit of Kildare County to Oriel Park on Thursday, kick off 7.45pm.

Paul Shiels will most likely deputise for John Gill's side. Robbie Martin, Robbie Farrell and Aidan Lynch may come back into contention after recovering from long-term injuries.

Tiernan Mulvenna has returned to training but it is not known if he will start the game. Goalkeeper Chris Bennion and midfielder Derek Doyle picked up knocks in the 2-2 draw with Athlone Town last Tuesday and it is hoped they can recover in time.

Kildare manager John Ryan will not relish the prospect of visiting the top side in the division, an injury crisis adds to worries. Craig Mooney (groin), Paul Donnolly (knee) and Colin Osborne (ankle) are all absent.

Austin O'Neill will undergo a late fitness test. Charlie Tracey will come in for him if he is unable to take his place in the starting line-up.