Kenny won the league when he was in charge of Bohemians back in 2003, but it is a piece of silverware that has so far alluded him during his two spells at Derry.

Now that he has built a strong squad at The Brandywell, he is hoping to claim top spot by beating Drogheda United on Friday evening and staying ahead of the chasing pack.

“It should be quite an open season as every team has strengthened this year and with only ten teams involved evey point will be crucial,” said Kenny.

“Bohemians have kept the majority of their players and added lads like Brian Shelley to make them stronger. St Pat’s, Shamrock Rovers, and Cork have all added good players too.

“Then there is Sligo Rovers, who did so well last year and will want to do just as well again. There are maybe five or six teams that could be challenging for the title this year.

“We have to focus on ourselves and hope that we can do enough to stay in amongst the rest. Of course, it would be terrific if we could get off to a winning start, but we won’t be taking any team for granted.

“It will be a tough season and I don’t expect it to be settled as early as it was last year when Bohemians ran away with it.”