Dermot Keely and Alan Matthews have reacted dramatically to last season's late surrender of the league title. Just about every department has been strengthened. Deserved favourites for the title

In: Kevin Doherty (Liverpool), Jim Gannon (Crewe), Garry Haylock (returned from loan at Glenavon), Mark Dempsey (Bohemians), Gareth Downey and Jonathon Minnock (Finn Harps), Brian Byrne (Shamrock Rovers), Peter Hutton (Derry City), Trevor Fitzpatrick (Southend United), Glen Downey (Bishop Auckland).

Out: Declan Geoghegan (retired), Avery John (Bohemians), James Keddy and Jonathan Prizeman (both Dundalk), Tony Sheridan (Dublin City), Pat Scully and Stephen Grant (both Shamrock Rovers), Paul Doolin (UCD).

Last five years: 3rd, 2nd, 3rd, 1st, 2nd.

Betting: 7/4.