Stephen Bradley urges Shamrock Rovers to 'go up a few levels' for crucial clash in Skopje

Good news, bad news for Shamrock Rovers manager Stephen Bradley on the injury front ahead of tomorrow's vital Europa League qualifier against Shkupi.

Ireland international Jack Byrne is available for selection following a string of injury issues this season, however, instrumental midfielder Chris McCann has been ruled out through injury.

Former Burnley midfielder, McCann, picked up a knock in last week's first leg victory over the North Macedonian side and has not proved his fitness ahead of the vital second leg, where Rovers take a 3-1 advantage to Skopje.

"He (McCann) has been brilliant," said Bradley. "He’s brought a calmness and composure when we needed it. He’s forced us to play when it’s easier just to kick it and get caught up in a 50:50 game, Chris has taken control of the game.

"He is a miss, but the squad is really strong and I’m sure whoever comes in will be ready to play and fill that void."

Otherwise, the Hoops have travelled with a strong squad and have enjoyed a stress-free trip to their south-central European destination, in comparison with their last away trip to Bulgaria, while other teams like St Patrick’s Athletic have also encountered logistic issues in Europe this season.

"Thankfully our travel was good, flight, hotel, everything was perfect, a lot better than what we’ve had on our previous trip," said Bradley.

The two previous rounds of European football have also helped Rovers acclimatise, playing in the continental summer heat in Bulgaria as well as Malta against Hibernian in the first round, and while day-time temperatures in Skopje have been hitting the 30s, Bradley does not believe it will be a factor for his side.

"We’re used to it," said Bradley. "It’s very similar to what we had in Malta. By