Owen Heary has backed Bohemians to make a big impression in Thursday's Europa League first round qualifying first leg match with Thór Akureyri in Dalymount Park.
The Gypsies return to European action with a new look compared to their previous campaigns as budget restricitions have forced Callaghan to bring in several young players compared to previous lavish spending on some of the top names in the league.
Last Friday’s memorable 4-0 win over fierce rival Shamrock Rovers in Dalymount Park showed that good times can still be enjoyed at the club despite the constraints and tonight’s game provides the chance to make more progress.
Icelandic side Thór Akureyri are actually in the second division in their domestic league, having qualified for Europe by reaching the Icelandic Cup final last season.
Player/Assistant-manager Heary has warned against taking the opposition lightly. “Nothing is won on paper. Look at last Friday’s result. Rovers looked better on paper, with more experienced players.
“Go back to the TNS game [in the Champions League in 2010]. We were the better team on paper and we got hammered.”
“For most of our squad this is the first time in Europe and they will be up for it. They will be fully focused and will give a good account of themselves.”
Bohemians come to the first leg of this Europa League tie boosted by last Friday’s historic win over Rovers.
“It was just reward for all the effort and application the lads have put in since the start of the season,” said manager Aaron Callaghan.
“From my point of view to see the four goals going in gives you confidence that you are doing things the right way. But I have to get the lads grounded for the next few games because it is still only three points.”
Bohemians may be without striker Dinny Corcoran who injured his shoulder last Friday but Derek Pender has returned to training following a calf strain and he should be available.
Dwayne Wilson suffered cramp on Friday but should also be fit for selection following an impressive first starting appearance as striker.
