Damien Duff knows that his Shelbourne side could be named League of Ireland champions without kicking a ball on Sunday if Dundalk can do them a favour.
The Premier Division leaders will hold at least a two-point buffer into the final round of a thrilling title race if Shamrock Rovers can leave Oriel Park with a win this weekend.
Such an outcome would see Shelbourne needing a win away to Derry City next week to ensure a first league win since 2006, as Rovers host Waterford in Tallaght.
But first, Stephen Bradley's side travels to face Dundalk in a game they are widely expected to win.
The Hoops emphatically beat Larne in Belfast mid-week and have been in a solid run of form, having also held APOEL to a draw on the European stage.
Dundalk, meanwhile, have already been consigned to relegation as they return to First Division football for the first time since 2008.
The Lilywhites have faced uncertainty on and off the pitch, just a few years removed from a stint that saw them win five LOI Premier Division titles in just six seasons.
Jon Daly's side will be keen to give the home support something to remember in what could be their last home top flight fixture for a while.
Beating Rovers - and ending their title hopes in the process - would certainly be that.
Damien Duff has kind words for Dundalk ahead of Rovers bout
Duff was in good form during his interview after Shelbourne put one hand on the trophy with a 2-1 home win against Drogheda on Friday night.
Goals from Sean Boyd and Rayhaan Tulloch were enough for the hosts at Tolka Park in a title run-in that has not been without drama.
Shelbourne's nerves ease at Tolka Park as the league leaders double their lead against Drogheda United, Rayhaan Tulloch making it 2-0 @rte2 & @rteplayer
📱 Updates - https://t.co/wRv55UVMR1
📺 Watch live - https://t.co/XnOP6grnB7 pic.twitter.com/MtMHaLGV42— RTÉ Sport (@RTEsport) October 25, 2024
Ireland legend Duff suggested that he 'might' tune in to watch Dundalk vs Rovers this Sunday, issuing a reminder of the pedigree of Dundalk as a club, despite their decline.
I might watch the game on Sunday," Duff told RTÉ after his win.
"I think a lot of people have written Dundalk off.
"But I think people forget that it is a very proud footballing town. It is a very proud footballing club. There is a very proud manager up there and there is footballing greats in the squad.
"So I think it is slightly disrespectful that they have been written off, so I might have a look on Sunday as well."
Kind words from Duff about a club which had dominated Irish soccer in the first-half of the last decade.
Perhaps they will take extra incentive from Duff's comments - something he is sure to be hoping for.
