Bohemians boss Alan Reynolds has said he is unsure whether to start former Premier League striker Lys Mousset in Sunday's clash with Shamrock Rovers as it was confirmed a record Premier Division crowd is set to attend the fixture at the Aviva Stadium.
Mousset has been the standout signing for Bohs in the off-season with manager Alan Reynolds making a host of changes to his squad.
Seven new signings have joined the Gypsies – including experienced League of Ireland players Niall Morahan, John Mountney and Colm Whelan.
But it was the former Sheffield United man that attracted the most headlines, having been purchased for over €20m throughout his career.
A spectacular pre-season goal against Waterford, as well as strikes against Athlone Town and Drogheda United, has only ramped up expectations among Bohs fans.
Speaking to RTÉ Sport, Reynolds said: "He's a lad that hasn't played for 18 months and took a gamble coming over to us.
"He just wants to get back playing and get love for football again. It seems to be a good fit, he’s an exciting talent. He has good quality and he is a great finisher.
"If he can get himself right and fit, people will enjoy watching him play and hopefully he's ready for Sunday.
"He'll definitely be involved, it's how much he'll play now is the next thing and will he start. But a player like that, you can't have enough of them in your squad."
Over 25,000 tickets have been sold for the game, which is more than six times the crowd had the game been played at Dalymount Park.
With six days to go until the game, it is hoped the number could reach 30,000 which would be unprecedented for a league game
Reynolds said: "We're really excited about the season firstly, it's been a long pre-season, we've been back early December so we're itching for it.
"As a player you're coming to the stadium, you're really excited. The Dublin Derby between Bohs and Rovers is a special game anyway and I suppose it's even more special now being played here.
"To give the players the opportunity and the staff the opportunity to be here as well, you take it all day long, what a place to play.
"We've young and energetic lads as well as a bit of experience, so I'm sure they won't be overawed with this, they'll be looking forward to it."
Given the changes to the squad – and the fact the club has failed to reach Europe in the last four league seasons – it’s difficult to predict what will come from Bohs during this campaign.
Reynolds is trying to keep their own expectations private.
"Look we have our targets, we just keep them in the house," he stated. "I suppose that's a boring answer but the focus is just on the game Sunday.
"We need to change the narrative I suppose. Last year was disappointing, we know that, but last year is in the past and it is something we've addressed.
"It's a new group a new squad who are flying fit and we're looking forward to the season ahead."
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