League of Ireland side Derry City will visit the Isle of Man next week for a four-day training camp.

The trip will culminate with a friendly against the Isle of Man Football Association’s men’s side at the Bowl on the evening of Wednesday, January 30.

Manager of the island Paul Jones is excited about the opportunity his players will have to match up against such prestigious opponents:

’We’re really thrilled that Derry City are coming to the island to prepare for their upcoming season.

’They are a quality side and it will be a fantastic challenge for our players to pit themselves against an Irish premier league team.

’This sort of fixture also demonstrates how we, as an organisation, are determined to give our players more opportunities to play against professional opposition and build on the successful challenges we faced in 2018.

’Derry’s willingness to come here further demonstrates that the Isle of Man is now being viewed as a football environment that professional clubs see as a viable option to prepare for upcoming competition.’

Derry begin their new league season on February 15, while the Isle of Man FA team will be using the game as preparations for the inter-island games, which take place in Anglesey in mid-June.

The game will kick-off at 7.30pm, with tickets costing £3 for adults and £1 for concessions.