Saints captain Damian Lynch (hamstring) and Brian Cash (thigh strain) continue to make progress but are expected to be sidelined for Saturday’s clash.

Ian Bermingham (Achilles) has been resting during week and Paul Byrne (knee), who was withdrawn at half-time in the Ireland Under-23 game against England, are expected to face late fitness tests.

Saints boss Pete Mahon said: “Drogheda are the only side to have beaten us twice this season and that is something that we will be looking to rectify.

“I thought their win against us in the league was a little bit against the run of play but we did not play well ourselves that night.

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“Ideally we want to be heading into the break up near the top of the table and that means going up there to win but it won’t be easy to come away with three points.”

Caretaker Drogheda boss Darius Kierans will have to plan without the suspended duo of Glen Fitzpatrick and Jamie Duffy, while Jamie Harris is a doubt.

Robbie Martin and Damien Brennan are both out through injury, however, Kierans will welcome back Garreth O’Connor from suspension.

Kierans said: “It is going to be a difficult game, especially with the players we have out. Pete (Mahon) has done a great job of organising his side and the league table doesn’t lie. They are going to be challenging all season and will be there or thereabouts at the end.

“We have beaten St Pats already this season so hopefully that will give us a bit of confidence going into it.”