Furness ready for Hungary tests

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Fresh from getting her name on the scoresheet for her club at the weekend, Rachel Furness is gearing up for another international challenge with Northern Ireland.

The experienced midfielder is relishing the prospect of back to back clashes with Hungary in the UEFA Women’s Nations League.

The two sides meet in Győr tomorrow evening (5.15pm ko) for what will be new manager Tanya Oxtoby’s third game in charge. The Australian-born boss will be aiming to make it two wins on the spin following last month’s 1-0 victory against Albania.

Then it’s back to Belfast for the return fixture at Seaview on Tuesday evening (7.00).

“I think playing them in a double header gives us a really good starting point,” Furness said. “I think that gives us an opportunity to implement our principles.

I’ve come into this camp with a spring in my step

“When Tanya came in, with her first two games being two competitive games – that’s difficult from day one. To finish that first block of matches with a win, I think was really positive.”

Furness is enjoying life at Women’s Super League side Bristol City and comes into this international window buoyed by a goal and a positive performance against Arsenal on Sunday.

“I’ve come into this camp with a spring in my step. I was really excited to come back in and I’m looking forward to how we are going to play and implement Tanya’s ideas. All the girls are very happy to be back in camp."

She added: “I’m confident at the minute. I feel fit and ready and that’s, you know, credit to Bristol City for getting me in a good place mentally and physically.

“It was great to get on the scoresheet at the weekend. I thought I was going to be more of a squad player this season, but I am not complaining.

“I’m really excited for this week and if given the opportunity to walk out there and represent Northern Ireland again then I’m confident. I’m ready and fingers crossed.”