Slovakia vs Northern Ireland: O’Neill gives me ‘freedom’ to get into attacking positions – Price

Northern Ireland’s next two World Cup qualifiers see them face Slovakia away on Friday and then host Luxembourg in Belfast on Monday as they aim to secure second place in their group, which will ensure qualification for the qualifiers next March.

O’Neill’s men are likely to be able to build on their group success in last year’s UEFA Nations League to progress if they fail to clinch second place.

They must face the Slovakians without Ethan Galbraith, while Brody Spencer, Shea Charles and Ali McCann are all on the injured list.

The former Everton and Standard Liege player added: “Two really important games for us. We were a little behind the previous camps, which is a big loss for us, but it’s a great opportunity for the other players to step up.”

“They have been key players for us over the last 18 months to a year, they are all doing well at club level and when they come here they look even better.”

He added: “We know that we have a tough test ahead of us in Slovakia. They have quality and we beat them 2-0 at home, so we know that they will be looking for some revenge.”

The 22-year-old made his international debut as a substitute against San Marino in March 2023, but says the close-knit nature of the group and consistency in style of play makes it easy for new arrivals to fit into the team.

“It’s a bit nerve-wracking when you’re young. Maybe you haven’t been in these environments before but it pushes your career and it’s easy to settle into this team, it’s quite a young team. I think it’s just a great group of lads overall.”

“The way we want to play is very clear. There has been consistency in the way we have played since I have been here.”

Having made his mark on the international stage with some impressive performances, Price believes the young team are capable of excelling under any pressure and the next step is to qualify for tournaments.

“There is confidence, enthusiasm and belief that we are good enough to play in these tournaments, and after the last six to 12 months, there is perhaps a little bit of expectation on us now.

“Maybe some people from the outside didn’t think we had the quality we did, but I think that’s a good thing for us – the higher the expectations, the better we are.

“Everyone here thinks we are good enough to go to a major tournament.”