As Corry Evans celebrates his 36th birthday today, we look at some of his best moments playing for Northern Ireland.
Evans played for his country at Under-16, U17, U19, U21 and even B level, racking up almost 30 appearances across the various age groups, before making his senior bow in 2009.
He earned his first senior cap in a friendly against Italy in Pisa.
That was in June 2009 and on 3 September 2010 he scored his first international goal -against Slovenia in a UEFA Euro 2012 qualifier.
Coming on as a substitute, the defensive midfielder slotted home a close-range effort with his first touch of the ball in the 70th minute. Northern Ireland would pick up the three points, leaving Maribor with a narrow 1-0 victory.
During Northern Ireland’s historic first win at their first European Championships in 2016, Evans played a pivotal role.
In his 90-minute stint the midfielder provided energy and made key plays, frustrating Ukraine throughout the match. Ultimately his performance proved essential in the 2-0 victory in Lyon. Corry and his brother Jonny became the first siblings to play for the national team at a Euros.
In his 50th appearance for Northern Ireland, in a UEFA Nations League match in October 2018, he was able to captain the side, fulfilling a childhood dream.
Despite the 2-0 loss to Bosnia and Herzegovina in Sarajevo, it was a momentous occasion for the midfielder. Evans said: “It’s something I’ve always dreamed of since I was a kid. Thanks to Steven (Davis) for letting me do it.”
Evans began playing competitive football with Greenisland Boys in Co Antrim before switching to Manchester United and becoming a trainee in July 2006.
He signed a professional contract at the Old Trafford club in 2009, however he did not manage to make a league appearance for the Red Devils before moving on in 2011. He had loan spells with Carlisle United and Hull City during his time with Manchester United - and he subsequently signed a contract with Hull in the summer of 2011.
After 75 appearances for Hull he joined Blackburn Rovers on a three-year deal initially in August 2013. He played for Rovers on 206 occasions before moving to Sunderland in August 2021 where he became club captain. He notched up 60 games for the Black Cats before leaving in the summer of 2024. Short spells at Bradford City and Oldham Athletic followed before he announced his retirement from professional football in August 2025.
Throughout his time playing for the national team Evans’ consistency helped bring success for Northern Ireland on the international stage. He won 72 caps for his country between 2009 and 2024, scoring two goals.
Happy Birthday Corry!
