Dan Ballard: Nations League offers chances for Northern Ireland's hungry squad
September 23, 2026 00:11
Ballard missed Northern Ireland’s World Cup play-off semi-final defeat by Italy in April and June friendlies against Guinea and France because of a hamstring problem. The 27‑year‑old, who has impressed for Sunderland this season, told BBC Sport NI there will “defo be opportunities this camp” for players who have not had many minutes.
He highlighted the squad’s depth and attitude, saying: “Sometimes we forget how strong a squad we have and then you look at training and there are a lot of hungry players who want to be involved. We have a lot of work to do, but there is a lot of talent and hunger.”
Northern Ireland will play four Nations League matches in this window — the first time they have done so since 2022 — and must fit them into an 11‑day span. Ballard acknowledged the physical and mental demands but believes the team will cope: “The games are coming thick and fast and we just have to do everything we can to prepare. It is tough on the mind and on our bodies, but we love playing games and that is why we do it. I am sure we will be ready.”
What’s next
Northern Ireland travel to Georgia on 25 September, host Hungary three days later, then head to Slovakia to face Ukraine before finishing at home against Georgia on 5 October.