Frank Lampard’s side have been in the Irish capital for nine days as the hard work and preparations for the new campaign begin in earnest. Following a 1-1 draw with Bohemians in midweek, the team travel to Richmond Park before returning to London later this evening.

Kick-off is 2pm and it can be watched via a live stream on this website or on our 5th Stand app. Click here for full details and to sign up to watch.

Season so far

The Pats are currently fifth in the League of Ireland Premier Division, two places and five points behind Wednesday’s opponents Bohemians. They have won three of their last four matches, although it was a difficult start to Europa League qualifying two days ago as they lost 2-0 to Swedish side Norrkoping in a home first-leg tie.

Former Aston Villa youngster Michael Drennan is their top scorer this season.

Familiar face

Some Chelsea fans may recognise the man wearing number six for our opponents today. Conor Clifford spent six years in our Academy after swapping Dublin for London in his teenage years. His most memorable moment came at Stamford Bridge in 2010 as he captained our youngsters to a first FA Youth Cup triumph since 1961. It was his goal seven minutes from time that settled a tight final with Aston Villa. Jeffrey Bruma and Josh McEachran were also in the Chelsea team that day.

Clifford went out on several loans before departing the Blues in 2013. He spent time at Southend United and Boreham Wood before returning to his native Ireland and signing for the Pats last summer.

Memories for Lampard

Our new head coach played a pre-season game at Richmond Park, home of the Pats, way back in his West Ham days. Fresh-faced and still in the early throes of his playing career, the midfielder lined up alongside another former Blue - Joe Cole - during a trip across the Irish Sea in July 2000.

Plenty of history

St Patrick’s have won nine league titles in their history, most recently in 2013, as well as three FAI Cups. They have been involved in UEFA competitions throughout the past decade, including the UEFA Cup in 2008/09 and the Champions League qualifiers in 2014/15.

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