St Patrick's Athletic's Airtricty Premier Division title hopes have faded in recent weeks but they will look to get back on track against Drogheda United in Richmond Park tonight, kick-off 7.45pm.

The Saints have not won in their last five league matches and defeat against Derry City last week means they are now seven points behind the leaders.

Success in European football often costs teams challenging at the top of the league and for Pat's it has been a huge factor in their performance.

It was always a concern that the Saints would not be able to cope with six extra matches and it is likely qualifying for the Europa League again is all they can rescue at this stage.

Bohemians are eyeing up the Saints after their good form so Pete Mahon's side will be desperate to return to winning ways against Drogheda.

There have been some tough times for Drogheda United but Mick Cooke has brought a consistency and steadiness to the club which has seen them improve throughout the season.

Last week's draw against rivals Dundalk brought the gap between the Boynesiders and UCD in the league down to just a point and if Cooke's men avoid defeat tonight, they will move up to eighth spot for at least 24 hours.

Next week brings a massive FAI Cup clash with the Lilywhites but Cooke is keen to see his side progress up the league.

The Saints welcome back goalkeeper Gary Rogers and Shane McFaul from suspension.

Sean O'Connor is the only injury concern with a calf strain.
Jack Flynn and Colm O'Brien and Peter McMahon are ruled out for Drogheda because of injury.

Pat's assistant boss John Gill feels the mood has changed after the controversial problem away from matters on the pitch in the last few weeks: "Off-field matters have been well documented of late, but training has gone very well this week and there is a good vibe within the team and the players are very positive ahead of the games on Friday and Monday.

"Obviously we are very disappointed with the manner of the defeat last week. It was the concession of sloppy goals that cost us the game and we have been working on this at training this week as we need to cut out the individual errors."

Drogheda United manager Mick Cooke is hoping to keep their stretch of good results going: "The consistency of our recent form is possibly the most pleasing aspect of the last few weeks. We have managed to get seven points from three games.

"We did lose our concentration a little against Dundalk and we were punished for it. It's something we can't do again. St Pat's are going to be awkward, they are going through a blip, but I'm sure they will see us as a chance to get back on track."