Squad Consistency Boosts NI's Nations League Ambitions

Northern Ireland's head coach, Tanya Oxtoby, emphasizes the importance of maintaining a stable squad for the team's ongoing development. With only one change from their previous campaign, the team hopes to build on their momentum in the upcoming Nations League matches.

Key Player Returns

Caragh Hamilton, a winger from Nottingham Forest, has been recalled to the squad, stepping in for the injured Casey Howe. Oxtoby views this as a significant advantage, stating,

"It's a massive positive when you can keep the core of your group together, we have some momentum now which is something we want to build on and standards in the group are where we want them to be."

Facing Formidable Opponents

This year, Northern Ireland is set to face Poland, a team that has qualified for the upcoming Euros, and Bosnia-Herzegovina, whom they defeated twice last year. Oxtoby believes the team's familiarity with the competition will be a crucial asset,

"We've been through this before, third Nations League campaign, we know what to expect."

Managing Player Loads

One of the challenges Oxtoby faces is managing player loads and ensuring players arrive at camp in prime condition. Drawing from her experience in club football, she aims to strike a balance between preparation and fatigue,

"The challenge is making sure the players are prepared and ready when they come to camp, but that they are not overtired. It's tough for clubs and national teams to make sure we get the balance right, but because I come from that background it helps."

Encouraging High-Performance Environments

Oxtoby also expressed her support for players making moves to higher-performing environments. Recent transfers, including Danielle Maxwell and Louise McDaniel to Burnley, align with her vision,

"We want our players to be in high-performing environments that suit them and are going to push them and help them reach their potential."

Northern Ireland kicks off their campaign against Poland in Gdansk on February 21, followed by a home match against Bosnia-Herzegovina. With a settled squad and a clear strategy, Oxtoby is optimistic about their prospects in the Nations League.