Paul Barden returns to captain Longford against Wicklow on Sunday after missing most of the Allianz Football League through injury.

The Clonguish man is named on the '40' as Glenn Ryan's side bid to end a seven-match losing streak which culminated in relegation from Division 2. With Brian Kavanagh currently in New York and David Barden no longer on the panel, the team captain will be joined in a new-look attack by U21 stars Padraig McCormack and Robbie Smyth.

John Keegan and Michael Brady form the midfield partnership, with Bernard McElvaney - who is named at wing forward - expected to operate as a third midfielder.

Experienced defender Peter Foy is ruled out with a leg injury, while Donal McElligott has been included among the substitutes after recovering from injury.

Longford (SF v Wicklow): D Sheridan; D Brady, B Gilleran, D Reilly; CP Smyth, M Quinn, S Mulligan; J Keegan, M Brady; B McElvaney, P Barden (captain), P McCormack; R Smyth, F McGee, S McCormack. Tweet

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