Football

Strength-in-depth key for Tyrone: Mugsy

RTE pundit and former Tyrone star Owen Mulligan has placed his trust in the Red Hands' strength in depth to derail Monaghan's defence of the Anglo-Celt Cup.

Mulligan is confident Mickey Harte has too many ace cards on the bench for a Farney outfit still in the process of building an extended squad of proven quality and experience.

With two testing preliminary round games already under their belts, Mickey Harte's men also have momentum in their favour as they prepare to face the Ulster champions, who will be making their first appearance of the campaign on Sunday.

"I think they have a stronger squad than anybody in Ulster. They are more equipped than other teams," said Mulligan (left).

"Others seem to have 16 or 17, but Tyrone have the full package, a lot of men on the bench that come in and do a serious job."

Monaghan boss Malachy O'Rourke will have to test his attacking resources as he attempts to replace Allstar Conor McManus, almost certainly ruled out by knee and ankle injuries.

"Conor McManus is a serious miss. I know that when we were playing them, Mickey would always have given McManus plenty of attention. I don't think they have got the players to replace him."

Tyrone, on the other hand, are experiencing significant gains on the injury front, with Stephen O'Neill and Justin McMahon back in action, and up to Championship pace, with Joe McMahon expected to return for the Clones showdown.

"If Tyrone can kick on and get rid of some injuries, with Stevie coming back in there as well, then they'll get stronger."

Mulligan feels that Tyrone would be a more potent attacking force with Matty Donnelly playing up front.

The Trillick man has been operating in the half back line, after starting the season as a full-forward.

"I'd rather see Matty Donnelly in a forward position, to be honest.

"They seem to be more comfortable now, with the likes of Justin McMahon back in there in the replay against Down. It gave Matty Donnelly and Petey Harte the licence to go forward more, and it seemed to help the whole thing.

"But again, it took Conor Gormley to come on and steady the ship."