DECLAN Bonner has named a changed Donegal line-up for this evening’s Allianz League Division 1 semi-final against Dublin in Cavan.
Odhrán Mac Niallais is named in the team for the first time since his return, while Conor O’Donnell is handed a first senior start.
O’Donnell made an eye-catching appearance off the bench in Donegal’s draw at Armagh two weeks ago and the Carndonagh youngster has been rewarded.
Veteran full-back Neil McGee has shaken off an injury and makes his return to the team.
Jason McGee and Caolan Ward are in for starts, but Donegal are shorn a number of regulars.
Captain Michael Murphy, as expected, is not included, but Bonner expects the Glenswilly man to be back in time for the Ulster SFC clash at Down in a fortnight.
Jamie Brennan, Andrew McClean and Paul Brennan aren’t in the squad due to injuries, while Eoghan Bán Gallagher, Hugh McFadden, Peadar Mogan and Niall O’Donnell – who have started recent matches – are among the substitutes this evening.
It is a rather peculiar semi-final setting, given that there will be no final if Donegal win – owing to their playing in the preliminary round of the Ulster SFC tomorrow-fortnight.