Brendan Devenney has side-stepped the chance for an immediate return to the Donegal team.

Devenney, who is not afraid to hide his feelings, has refused approaches from the new manager Brian McEniff to play in Sunday's NFL League tie against Dublin.

However, Devenney, who threatened to retire after Donegal's All-Ireland demise last season, has not ruled out a return later in the competition.

The St Euan's player is unlikely to play until he returns from a two-week holiday in March.

I am not quite rested at all yet Brendan Devenney

It is believed he could be available for the sixth round tie away to Cork on 22/23 March.

''To be honest, after the Dublin defeat last year, I was ready to give it all up. That's how bad I felt about it,'' said Devenney.

''Brian (McEniff) has put me under some pressure, but I think for all parties, including my wife, I think I should take these next few weeks to rest.

''I am not quite rested at all yet. After the holiday, I will definitely be available then.

''With Brian involved, I would have close ties with him for various reasons.

''I know we are under a bit of pressure, but I think it would be better for everyone involved for me to come back full at throttle, rather than jaded and tired.''

Returns

Meanwhile, Darren Conway will make his NFL debut when he lines out for Derry against Clare at left half forward.

Conway, who won an All-Ireland club medal with Ballinderry, is one of a number of changes to Mickey Moran's team.

With Nial McCusker and Conleth Gilligan unavailable, Moran also gives Francis Glackin a start in the attack.

As expected, Sean Marty Lockhart returns to the substitutes bench following his severe arm fracture last season.

Derry: S McGuckin; R Lynch, k McCloy, K Doherty; P O'Kane, P McFlynn, G Doherty; E Muldoon, F Doherty; F Glackin, R Rocks, D Conway; P Bradley, D Dougan, G Diamond.