We might be without some key players that combined are worth about 10 points a game but this is a time for other players to shine. We cannot have any qualms about O'Neill, we all know he struck someone and is rightfully suspended for the game - it isn't nice but those are the rules. However, we still have the depth to cover the loses I would prefer to have Mackin back, but again it is an area with cover.
Despite losing a few influential players we still have to curb the influence of Murphy and McBreaty - that is our defences key job and it is something we have been unable to do for the last few meetings against them.
This is an opportunity to see what this team is made of. Those that have not been in the first team this league campaign due to injury or who have fallen out of favour have the opportunity to step up and show McGeeney what they are about. I really hope we do not fall apart like we have in past championship encounters with Donegal, this is a team we must beat to show what progress has been made - even without key players. We cannot rely on Rian all the time, there are going to be plenty of games where we will have to cope without him.