Jack Byrne fitness boost for Shamrock Rovers ahead of European bow

UEFA Champions League (First qualifying round, first leg) 

Shamrock Rovers v Breiðablik 

Tallaght Stadium (Live on RTÉ2, 7.45pm) 

Shamrock Rovers have been boosted by the return to fitness of midfielder Jack Byrne ahead of Tuesday night’s Champions League clash with Icelandic side Breiðablik.

Byrne hasn’t featured in Rovers' last two games since coming off with a knee injury in the league win over Derry City a fortnight ago.

Following Friday’s frustrating 0-0 draw at Drogheda United, manager Stephen Bradley had all but ruled the Ireland international out of this first leg. But his further recovery over the weekend has expedited his welcome return.

“He was out early this morning and he did well,” said Bradley of Byrne at Monday’s pre-match media briefing.

“He’s a top player. We know that,” added Bradley when asked of the 27-year-old's importance to the team, especially on night’s like this. “He shows that every week, in terms of the opportunities he creates. He’s difficult to play against. If he’s available, which it looks like he is, it’s a positive for us.” 

Also back fit for Rovers are defender Lee Grace and anchor midfielder Gary O’Neill, tough wingers Trevor Clarke and Neil Farrugia remain sidelined. As he did in returning to the squad in Drogheda, goalkeeper Alan Mannus is again likely to be on the bench following his finger injury.

In contrast to Rovers, failing to score in their last two games against Dundalk and Drogheda, Icelandic champions Breiðablik arrive in good form, sitting third in their league, while having cruised through the preliminary qualifiers to get here, scoring 12 goals and conceding just once in the two games.

“They a very good team,” said a wary Bradley who travelled to watch them first