Ferguson targets Euro 2016 spot

Millwall full-back Shane Ferguson is desperate to earn a place in Michael O’Neill’s Northern Ireland squad for Euro 2016 this summer.
The 24-year-old was a starter during the Green and White Army’s recent 1-0 friendly victory over Slovenia and has now won 22 caps for his country since making his debut in 2009.

The former Newcastle player, who was making his first international start since injuring knee ligaments, has revealed he has been boosted after returning to the starting XI.

He said: “I really enjoyed it. It was good to get away as well. Starting gave me a lot of confidence and it was a great experience. It was fantastic to be part of Northern Ireland’s achievement in getting to the Euros.”

The left-back is now desperate to cement his place in O’Neill’s final 23-man squad for the finals, as he looks to secure success both internationally and with Millwall, who are challenging for promotion to the Championship this season.

Ferguson added: “What would be great would be if we could get promoted and I could play in France. It could be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

Northern Ireland will take on world champions Germany, Poland and Ukraine in Group C at Euro 2016 and are 3.30 to qualify for the knockout stage.