BLUES OUT TO TAME LIONS

Northern Ireland international goalkeeper Maik Taylor will be among the visiting squad, along with the Republic of Ireland’s Andy Keogh and David Forde. Another international player will also be in the squad in the form of Nadjim (Jimmy) Abdou, who has played for the Lions since 2008 and represents African nation, Comoros.

Glenavon boss Gary Hamilton is delighted that his side will have the opportunity to take on Kenny Jackett’s men.

“It’s a great occasion for the club,” he said.

“It has been a few years since Glenavon have played a team of that sort of stature and it’ll be a good opportunity for our players to play against a Championship side.

“It’ll be a good test for us to play against a better class of player and it’s even a good chance for our young lads to pit their wits against professional players to see if they’re up to the challenge. It’ll be a good chance for them to impress us and you never know who else may be watching and take a chance on them after a match like this.”

With the game providing such a rare opportunity for the part-time Glenavon players to take on professional opposition, Hamilton is keen to give all of his squad a good chance to impress.

He said: “Everyone will play a part in the game. We’ll start with a strong team but I want to give everyone the chance to play against Millwall, as it doesn’t come along very often. Hopefully we’ll be able to give everyone at least 30 minutes on the pitch.

“The result isn’t really that important, we just want to give all the lads a chance to play.”

The friendly game was originally set-up by the late Alan McDonald, who sadly died last month. Respects will be paid to the former Northern Ireland international and Glentoran manager before Saturday’s game.

“The match was organised through Alan, so it will be a very emotional occasion as well,” said Hamilton.

“Alan was a good friend of mine, and a good friend to people from the Millwall camp as well so there will be a minute’s silence for everyone to pay their respects to him before the game.”

Admission to the game will be £10 for adults and £6 concession whilst Glenavon supporters are reminded that season tickets are not valid for this match.

The Blues then host Derry City at Mourneview Park on Tuesday evening (kick-off 7.45pm) and admission for that game will be priced at £8 for adults and £5 concession, with season tickets again not valid.