Blow for Northern Ireland as experienced defender ruled out of Denmark and Iceland friendlies

Paddy McNair has been sidelined from Northern Ireland’s upcoming friendlies against Denmark and Iceland due to a groin injury.

The 30-year-old, who has earned 75 caps, was part of a training camp in Marbella this week but did not join the squad for the match in Copenhagen on Saturday, instead returning to his club San Diego FC.

Manager Michael O’Neill is now left with a youthful squad – with 12 of the remaining 25 players aged 21 or under – following McNair’s departure, losing his most seasoned player ahead of the final preparations for their World Cup qualifying campaign.

“(Alongside) George (Saville), he’s our most senior player, he’s our most capped player in this group of players,” O’Neill remarked.

“He’s obviously gone into a new chapter in his career as well, going to the MLS. I think he’s in a good place because San Diego have had a great start to their first season in MLS, but I think that the squad has to learn to deal with that.

“I think that whilst we’re young, the players are getting used to playing in these types of games and this is the reason we take these types of games so that they are ready to deal with this level of opposition.”

Northern Ireland’s recent form has been strong, with just three losses in their last 13 internationals, a streak that began with a 2-0 victory over Denmark in Belfast in November 2023 – which followed a disheartening evening in Copenhagen where a stoppage-time equaliser was disallowed by VAR, resulting in a 1-0 defeat.

Despite the stern setback with a 5-1 thrashing at the hands of Sweden in March, which dealt some tough lessons, Northern Ireland head into their match against Denmark – ranked 21st globally. Michael O’Neill underscored the importance of such challenging encounters.

“There’s no point playing teams you will beat all the time,” he highlighted. “You won’t get any better if you do that. The result is always important but this is preparation for September.”

Reflecting on the Sweden match, O’Neill conceded his squad was inexperienced and while the scoreline seemed unforgiving, it exemplified the brutal reality of international football. “We talked about the Sweden game and we were very young on the night and the result was a little bit harsh on us but that is what international football can do. It can be harsh on you.”

Amidst ongoing leadership rotations, Trai Hume has been appointed skipper for both upcoming matches. O’Neill commended the 23-year-old, noting his rapid ascent from the Irish League to the Premier League after transferring to Sunderland from Linfield in 2022.

“For me Trai is probably more like the lads that used to be in the squad when I was in it,” O’Neill reflected. “Nothing seems to faze him. Modern footballers get caught up in a lot of stuff.”

Emphasising Hume’s grounded nature and drive, his manager described him as a “Trai doesn’t seem to be fazed by any of that which is quite refreshing. His feet are firmly on the ground but he is very driven. He’s a straight talker which is good, he’s a good talker in the group and a strong leader.”

Blow for Northern Ireland as experienced defender ruled out of Denmark and Iceland friendlies

Tags: