Former Monaghan star Bernie Murray is trying to plot the downfall of his native county this weekend.

Scotstown clubman Murray - who coached a Monaghan minor team that included current stars Colin Walshe, Fintan Kelly, Kieran Duffy, Dermot Malone, Darren Hughes and Christopher McGuinness in 2008 - is a member of Aidan O'Rourke's Louth backroom team.

He is hoping the Wee County players can restore some pride in the jersey in Clones on Sunday following last weekend's heavy defeat to Down.

"They are going to be formidable but from our point of view it's about the reaction of our players," Murray explained to Gaelic Life.

"Our boys are obviously very annoyed with how things went on Saturday and we're expecting a kickback.

"Last year when we had an indifferent performance we always got a reaction after it.

"Last weekend was the first time we ended up being put to the sword the way that we were since we have come in.

"So, we'll be expecting a reaction and I think the players are very determined that there will be, but only time will tell."

Louth's chances of causing an upset against the Ulster champions will be helped by the expected return of a number of players from injury.

"Brian White, Brian Donnelly and Derek Crilly all came on against Down on Saturday.

"They all had knocks, but they seem to have come through OK and hopefully will be in a position to start.

"Eoin O'Connor will hopefully be pushing hard for a start. Pauric Rath was injured, Gary O'Hare was injured and we'll not be sure on those lads until nearer the game." Tweet

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