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Steven Crawford

Dean Shiels relying on Dungannon Swifts youth for promotion-relegation play-off against Annagh United

Dean Shiels may have to dip into his talented Under-20s panel for tonight's promotion/relegation play-off first leg at Annagh United (BMG Arena, 7.45pm).

Both sides face selection issues due to the scheduling of the crucial two-legged tie following Warrenpoint Town's unsuccessful appeal against not being granted a Championship or Promotion licence.

Annagh have replaced Barry Gray's team in the shootout for a place in the Premiership, which should have taken place at the start of the month.

Read next: Tommy Wright reported to be main contender for vacant NI Under-21 post

Shiels and opposite number Ciaran McGurgan now find themselves with selection headaches with several players unavailable for the double-header this week.

"The difficulty for us was the uncertainty because we weren't sure when we'd be playing or who we were against," said the Swifts boss.

"We just had to prepare for when we were called upon, but it was difficult to try and set a schedule out as well as giving the players some time off as well as making sure we were ready to go come the play-off.

"Obviously who we were playing was always going to be a factor too, but we just had to be prepared for no matter who it was, and be professional.

"It's not ideal, I had watched four Warrenpoint games before all this happened to be prepared for them, but obviously it has all changed now.

"We've prepared right for games all season, we just needed clarity as to who we would be playing.

"Unfortunately we have quite a few players missing due to players coming out of contract and other players being on holiday, so that has been a bit of a nightmare.

"I know Annagh are in a similar situation, which is sad because this game should be the best version of Dungannon against the best version of Annagh.

"They will still pose a threat, they have some quality players and it's a free hit for them to get into the Premiership."

The Swifts have fitted in two friendlies since they finished off their regular season with a 2-1 win against Newry City.

Shiels blooded nine young players that day which could prove vital as he bids to put a squad together for the games against Annagh.

"It was quite positive to be able to do that and there was a good feeling around the place," he said.

"It's hard when you're in a relegation battle, but we're trying to develop players and improve them.

"That's what this club will continue to do, it's the cornerstone of the club's philosophy."

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