Danny Mandroiu is not cramping Keith Ward's style at Bohemians this season as creative spark Mandroiu has been a revelation as the advanced midfielder playing behind the striker.
It is a role Ward used to occupy and he has been shifted to the wing because of the former Brighton man’s red-hot form.
But facing his former club UCD tonight, Ward said: “Our rivalry is a healthy one, but I'm older and better looking!
"The fans have taken to him, he's been great for us. Obviously everyone was talking about the goal against Shamrock Rovers and he deserved to win Player of the Month.
"But he's been one of the standout players in the league and they're the kind of players you want to play with.
“I don't mind playing on the wing, the main thing is I'm playing and contributing to the team."
UCD have lost key men in recent weeks with Neil Farrugia and Gary O’Neill joining Shamrock Rovers while Conor Davis went to Derry City.
But the Students also moved off the foot of the table and host the Gypsies on the back of Friday’s good point in the Brandywell.
“You can't underestimate UCD, they've got good young players,” said Ward.
“We know they've lost some players but they still have quality and they've brought in Jack Keaney from Sligo Rovers.
"They've got a win and a draw in their last two games and we know we’re in for a tricky game.”
Evan Osam remains out for UCD while Bohs are without crocked Aaron Barry, Rob Cornwall, Danny Grant, Dinny Corcoran and Cristian Magerusan.
