McAuley talks up Northern Ireland’s chances

Northern Ireland defender Gareth McAuley is adamant that his team can silence the doubters and qualify for the knockout stages of Euro 2016.

The 36-year-old played a key role in helping his side qualify for the European Championships this summer, but many are expecting them to exit the competition at the first hurdle.

Northern Ireland, 3.30 to qualify from Group C, have been drawn against Germany, Poland and Ukraine.

Michael O’Neill’s men will compete in their first major tournament for 30 years but McAuley is confident they can spring a surprise.

“You say the group’s daunting. I’d say we have a good chance of getting something out of it, without getting ahead of ourselves,” McAuley is quoted as saying by SkySports.

“But, with Michael’s plan, we could surprise a few. We’ll have different things that we’ll use and we will surprise these teams as well. Things we’ve practised, but not yet used in the campaign, so I think these teams will be wary of us.

“Obviously, we have to deal with the occasion and focus on the job, but judging by the ticket sales we’ll be taking half the country with us.

“So it will be an incredible experience and we’ll run ourselves into the ground for everyone.”

Northern Ireland warmed up for Euro 2016 with a friendly against Wales on Thursdaynight but neither side grabbed the bragging rights in the 1-1 draw. O’Neill’s side will take on Slovenia on Monday before further friendlies against Belarus and Slovakia in May and June.