Confidence back for visit of Crues

The Lurgan Blues will not have it easy against the champions who clicked into gear last weekend with a 5-0 win over Ballinamallard United.

However, Gary Hamilton’s side can be a match for any team, as they have shown, but only if they play to their potential.

“We will approach the game as any other and that we will be go into it aiming for a win,” said Hamilton.

“To get anything out of it we will need to continue the form that saw us beat Ballymena and Warrenpoint - anything less will not be good enough.

“Crusaders are the champions and they are tipped to do it again this year. They are strong all over the pitch but especially up front with Paul Heatley and Gavin Whyte a real handful.

“We’ll be focused and try to produce a performance that will give us something from the game.”

Barring any injuries at training on Thursday night Glenavon will go into the game with the same team that started at Warrenpoint.

“I can’t see any change unless it is enforced,” said Hamilton. If you get in and play well you keep the shirt. Our bench last week had Mark Patton, Andy McGrory and Fabio on it so it shows we have a good squad with competition for places which is important.”

Simon Kelly comes into the reckoning, he had to pull out late last week with a hamstring concern.

Glenavon are in line for a development fee for former player Adam Salley who has signed professional terms with Linfield.