LOI preview: Kenny returns as LOI set to heat up

It has been an incredible seven days in the League of Ireland and now the real fun begins.

Stephen Kenny is back, Dundalk are in interim mode once more, Shelbourne remain top after one win in eight and the top four are separated by just six points as the halfway point approaches.

There is genuine excitement at the prospect of a Kenny-led side in the run-in taking on the likes of Shamrock Rovers and Derry City.

Tonight he begins a new chapter against a former club.

Derry City have been improving in recent week in their own quest for honours. They may be cursing their luck at the prospect of the bounce for the Saints ahead of the fixture.

From a neutral point of view the prospect of a multi-faceted title run-in could bring great attention to the league at a crucial time.

Kenny’s return will only help that potential scenario.

Meanwhile the champions travel to Oriel Park looking to return to winning ways having been unusually poor in defence in recent games.

With just one win in their last five, it has not been an impressive year thus far for the four-in-a-row winners.

Nevertheless the sides around them are simply not taking advantage so there will be little panic in Tallaght.

How the Lilywhites wish they could be in such a position.

Brian Gartland was part of their interim management team before Noel King was appointed.

Both departed this week for differing reasons, leaving Liam Burns in the dugout tonight.

With Kenny ruled out, it remains to be seen who takes over. A tough job awaits to even just get to the relegation play-off.

One of their few season high points came against the Hoops on the opening day. What followed has been utter turmoil and some relief would be welcome back in Louth.

Leaders Shelbourne have struggled for victories