Derry City boss Kevin Mahon looking for a turn of fortune

Barcelona have confirmed their trip to the Brandywell for a high-profile friendly but Derry City are hopeful of a change of date.

The Spanish giants have offered Tuesday, 12 August for their visit, but City chairman Jim Roddy is hopeful that the Catalans will agree to play on Sunday, 10 August.

''We are involved in a Uefa Cup game on Thursday, two days after their proposed date,'' he said.

''Although we won't know whether we will be playing home or away until the draw is made, things will be tricky.

''Obviously, if that's the only date Barcelona can play, then so be it.

''I believe that Liverpool have made a request to the Spanish club to play a friendly at Anfield on Friday, 8 August, and that might help us.

''However, the decision rests with Barcelona.''

Meanwhile, Derry City have more important things on their mind on Friday night when they face a difficult trip to Dublin.

Following three successive defeats in their opening Eircom League programme, they need a victory against St Patrick's to break their duck.

Manager Kevin Mahon has John Paul McBride back in action although Alan Gough, Tommy McCallion and Liam Coyle are still unavailable.