Linfield make the short journey across Belfast on Saturday afternoon to take on Crusaders at Seaview (3pm kick-off, all-ticket).

The sides have already met twice this season, both encounters taking place at Windsor Park, with the Blues emerging victorious on each occasion with a narrow 1–0 win followed by a convincing 4–0 success.

Crusaders have experienced a difficult campaign to date and currently occupy 10th place in the Sports Direct Premiership, just one point clear of the relegation zone. Their most recent outing ended in a heavy 5–1 defeat away to Coleraine. Manager Declan Caddell has been active in the transfer market in an effort to arrest their slide, bringing in Cameron Boyce from Airdrieonians and Thomas Maguire from Dungannon Swifts. Meanwhile, experienced duo Ross Clarke and Jarlath O’Rourke have departed for Glentoran.

David Healy has also moved to strengthen his squad, with Adam Frizzell joining from Derry City and Darragh Leahy arriving from Waterford FC. Callumn Morrison has returned to Scotland to sign for Dunfermline Athletic. The Blues boss will be hoping his side can return to winning ways after back-to-back goalless draws against Carrick Rangers and Larne.

With local pride and valuable league points at stake, Linfield will be aiming to continue their strong record against the Crues this season and claim another important three points to try and narrow the gap with league leaders, Larne.

COYB!

By Ken Garrett