Preview: Stephen Kenny returns to Oriel Park for first time with Dundalk needing new saviour

Stephen Kenny returns to Oriel Park for the first time as a manager since their golden era, looking to keep St Patrick's Athletic’s hopes of a European finish alive and in the process sending Dundalk towards relegation.

Kenny has written his name into Lilywhite folklore, winning four league titles, two FAI Cups and qualifying for the Europa League.

Those days are now just memories for Dundalk fans with huge worries over the future of the club.

Local reports this week stated owner Brian Ainscough in considering selling the club and refused to comment when asked.

With debt hanging over the club, likely to be in a seven-figure sum, a stadium that will soon not be fit for use without investment and on the bottom of the table, these are bleak times in Oriel.

Results last week, including their 1-0 loss to Shelbourne at the venue, means the best they can hope for now barring a huge turnaround is the relegation play-off.

One win in seven matches since the mid-season break has not been good enough for Jon Daly’s side.

Scoring has proven a major issue while at the back Felix Goddard has produced several errors in goal.

Dundalk have scored just 19 goals in their 28 league games this season, with just four from 14 at home.

For all the negatives, a point tonight would at least bring them level on points with Drogheda United.

The Saints remain in the hunt for Europe despite a poor league campaign overall.

They saw off 10-man Drogheda United last Sunday and are one of five sides aiming for one guaranteed Conference League spot.

Eight points behind Sligo Rovers with tonight’s game in hand, it’s a must-win for Kenny’s outfit.

There was controversy around this fixture as it was postponed just 46 hours from kick-off as St Pat’s were preparing for their