DUBLIN CITY include news signings Dave Freeman and James Gallagher in the travelling squad to take on Cobh Ramblers in St Colman's Park tomorrow evening.


The Vikings have struggled to gain points in recent games having suffered defeats at the hands of Dundalk and Limerick at home while dropping two points away to lowly Galway as well.


But the spirit in the camp remains buoyant and Gallagher comes with an excellent reputation as a shot stopper and has four years experience at Celtic behind him.


He'll go straight in after Brendan Kennedy's dismissal last Saturday with rookie netminder Dave Ennis back on the bench.


City will also have to plan without Ray Scully who was sent off for a second yellow against Limerick and that may well see Pat Deans comes into the fray against the Cork side.


City now trail Sligo by five points but midfielder Paul Shiels is unperturbed by recent events and says: "It's early doors in the season and we have enough football left to reel in Sligo and don't forget we also have to play them twice."


Shiels has been in superb form but bemoans the loss of his midfield partner Scully: "We've not go a decent run as a pairing as a result of injuries and suspensions but I believe if we get a sustained spell in midfield, we'll be the best combination in the first division."


In fairness to the Vikings, the team has played well except for the first half against Galway and Shiels has no doubts the team will come good. "We've got some real quality players and no one is panicking. We've got a couple of excellent players in on loan and they'll strengthen us. We know the potential we have and we just have to go about our business."


Freeman, 25, has come in on loan from Drogheda United and the striker will be eager to get off the mark with the Vikings. It adds to the competition up front and Robbie Collins, Philly Gorman and Trevor Vaughan will look to their laurels to ensure that they continue to play their part on the field of play for Dermot Keely's side.