Double Boost For O’Leary

David O’Leary has been given a welcome boost ahead of the weekends clash with Sunderland after both left back Wilfred Bouma and right back Aaron Hughes have been declared fit. This is especially welcome following the news that Mark Delaney has picked up yet another injury and will be unable to play.

O’Leary said, ‘Aaron and Freddie are absolutely fine. As each day has gone on, from being a bit rusty and apprehensive on Monday, they’ve been getting rid of the cobwebs. So, for once, we’ve actually been able to take advantage of the international break. But it’s Sod’s Law that Delaney is now out with a groin injury. Just as we’re looking at the chance of a bit of competition and the possibility of shaking things up, it goes down the pan.’