Captain Kelly returns as Kildare side is named for this weekend's crucial trip to Tipperary

Cian O'Neill has opted to make a number of changes to the side that lost to Sligo in the last round of the league as the Lilywhites prepare for the trip to Clonmel for the penultimate round of this year's competition.

O'Neill has made four changes in total as Kildare looked to tighten their grip on top spot in Division 3 against promotion rivals Tipperary. Captain Peter Kelly returns from injury to take his place in a full-back line that looked quite shaky against Sligo, meaning David Hyland is pushed out to wing-back. Cian O'Donoghue also comes into the half-back line as Eoin Powderly and Emmet Bolton drop out.

The midfield remains unchanged as Tommy Moolick and Kevin Feely continue their partnership, while Eoghan O'Flaherty comes into the side at the expense of Matty Byrne. The only other change sees the return of Alan Smith, who is named instead of Éanna O'Connor in the full-forward line.

Throw-in is scheduled for 2pm in Clonmel on Saturday afternoon and KildareNow will be reporting live from the venue to bring you all the action as it happens.