Dave Partridge is suspended, while Gareth O’Connor has recovered from a thigh injury and returned to training during the week.

Saints boss Jeff Kenna said: “With three recent defeats it’s been a difficult week or so for the team so we need to get a win under our belts.

“A big overall improvement is needed and we need to get back to the level of defending that helped to bring us wins against Cork and Sligo.”

Shane Barrett, Robbie Martin, Robbie Farrell and John Paul Kelly are all out injured for Drogheda, while Alan McNally is a doubt but might be fit to start.

United boss Alan Mathews said: “I didn’t set myself any points target at the beginning of the season. We wanted to be in touch of the teams around us.

“Unfortunately we find ourselves five points adrift at the bottom, but we’re looking to get maximum points against both St Pat’s and Sligo in our next two games.”