Seán Gannon returned to where it all started by leaving Dundalk for Shamrock Rovers over the winter.

He made his senior debut for Rovers a decade ago after they plucked him out of the schoolboy game at U-18 level, with Gannon believing the LOI call would never come.

The Dubliner really made his name after leaving Rovers, becoming an integral member of Stephen Kenny’s trophy-laden era at Dundalk. He comes face to face with his old club tonight, aware that soreness lingers over his exit. 

“In football you are never going to please everybody,” he said yesterday. “But the main thing for me was what was the right decision for my future and my family.”

A long-term commitment from Rovers also played a part in Gannon’s former Dundalk team-mate Richie Towell choosing Tallaght. The training ground and stadium infrastructure also made it an attractive fit and Towell comes into contention for a debut tonight against his old employers.

Both Gannon and Rovers boss Stephen Bradley hailed Towell’s positive presence around the dressing-room. He’s been around for a couple of weeks after finishing his final season in England with Salford.

“Richie still loves a shot anyway,” smiled Gannon,  “But he’s obviously learned things. He’s changed his game as well. He’s adapted.

“When I played with him he was probably a number eight or number ten. Now he can drop in and get the ball off the back four. He can do everything in midfield.”

He comes into the frame at an exciting time with Rovers entering Champion League action against Slovan Bratislava next Wednesday. However, a mixed run has left Rovers immersed in a tight title race so the focus is short term.

Gannon, for his part, is adjusting to a new wing-back role with Bradley paying tribute to the six-time league winner’s desire to learn. “The manager has challenged me to think differently about my game,” explained the ex-Dundalk right-back.

The Hoops will have 1,000 fans present tonight but are waiting on word for the Slovan second leg. Bohemians will be boosted by 6,000 spectators for their July 15 Europa Conference League decider with Stjarnan after it was moved to the Aviva Stadium in conjunction with the FAI.

Meanwhile, Rovers have decided against a move for Anthony Stokes after his trial period with the club.