David Healy ready for ‘local derby’ to kick off Linfield’s European run

Healy is all too aware of the European pedigree of the Cymru Premier side ahead of their first leg at Park Hall.

Only 12 months ago they dumped ‘Big Two’ rivals Glentoran out of the Europa Conference League with a 3-1 win over the two legs.

So the Blues boss says their opponents will command the “utmost respect”.

“It’s a fair draw in that it gives us a chance of progressing,” Healy told the club website. “But of course, The New Saints will look at the draw and think it also gives them a really good chance of making progress in the competition.

“They are regularly champions of Wales and the seeded team in the draw so they will command our utmost respect, as they are a good side who have a fine pedigree in European competition.”

Logistically it is the perfect draw for the Blues with a large travelling contingent expected to make the journey to Shropshire, and Healy feels that could make a big difference ahead of next week’s second leg at Windsor Park.

“In many ways, it’s like a local derby in Euro terms and we already know quite a bit about the New Saints, so it’s an exciting draw for us and one we will relish,” said Healy. “We’ve missed our supporters on our European travels in recent years, due to Covid restrictions and I’m particularly pleased for the supporters who will be able to get match tickets that we’ve got this favourable draw from a supporter travelling perspective.

“Logistically, it’s a good draw for the club, in terms of getting there and back and I look forward to seeing a good turn-out of Blue men, women and children in Oswestry.

“Our focus is on doing all we can to try and win the tie and our supporters can help make a difference over the two legs of the tie.”

It has been a busy few weeks for the Blues as