IRISH CENTRE will be without star striker John Paul Flynn for their Carlsberg Cup second round clash with Canada FC on Sunday.

The hitman, who scored Irish's opening goal in their first-round tie against Stanley Royal, has picked up a suspension which rules him out of the tie at AFC Emley's Welfare Ground (1.00).

Despite the absence of his talisman, Irish Centre boss Chris Helliwell is confident his side can cope.

He said: "Flynn's a big loss, he's a prolific goalscorer, but we've a good squad and we can deal with it."

With Alan Mowforth and Joshua Birch also unavailable, the game presents Irish with an opportunity to measure themselves against quality opposition.

Canada FC, formerly known as Canada Edinburgh, play in the Liverpool and District Sunday League and Helliwell is aware of the tough task facing his side.

He said: "They play in a far more advanced league than us and have been very successful over the last few years. They are definitely the favourites."

Canada Secretary Kevin Doolan is pleased with the side's start to the season and excited about the style in which the team are playing.

He said: "We've played eight, won seven and lost one, so it's been a successful start.

"We've a good all round side, the players are young and there's a lot of pace in the team."

Doolan's optimism is not restricted to his side's record this season as he can point to the fact the team has reached the semi-finals of this competition on three occasions.

Canada also progressed to the final in 2003, only to be thrown out after fielding an ineligible player.

Doolan has wished Irish well, but offered them a warning.

He said: "I hope the best team win but keep an eye on our forward line, which is strong, quick and skilful. And, by the way, (striker) Leighton McGiven is on fire."

The side are captained by defensive midfielder Bryan Moogan, who was a former teammate of Wayne Rooney in the Everton Youth team.

Regardless of Canada's virtues, Helliwell hopes home advantage can affect the game.

He said: "We'll have great support and we can build on some very good performances this season."