By Michael McMullan

DERRY have received a boost ahead of Sunday week’s Ulster final clash with Donegal.

Manager Rory Gallagher has said Niall Loughlin is “good to go” ahead of the Clones showdown.

Loughlin was forced out of Sunday’s win over Monaghan after 41 minutes and looked a doubt for the county’s first appearance in the decider since 2011.

“No,” was Rory Gallagher’s response when asked if there was concern over the Greenlough man’s availability.

“In fairness we got Niall scanned a couple of days after it and he has no hamstring injury or tear,” said Gallagher, who pointed to it being cramp coming from a back problem earlier in the season.

Loughlin scored 0-7 in their win over Tyrone and was on target with a point from play during the first half of Sunday’s semi-final.

“Niall is good to go,” Gallagher confirmed. “He had back issues at the start of the year and it flared up a wee bit.

“We are out on Sunday and we get through another couple of more training sessions and he should be fine.”
Derry are searching for a first title since 1998, when a late Joe Brolly goal sunk Donegal.

READ MORE – A look at Derry’s win over Monaghan. Click here…