Northern Ireland Under-21s manager Tommy Wright is relishing the opportunity to test his side against one of Europe’s leading football nations when they take on Portugal in an international challenge fixture tonight.
Wright’s side are set to take on the Portuguese in Estoril on Wednesday 3 June (7.30pm CET kick-off). The venue is Estádio António Coimbra da Mota.
Wright’s squad have enjoyed a short but productive preparation period ahead of the game, with the players arriving in good condition.
“Preparation for this game has been relatively short, but it has gone well,” said Wright. “The weather and facilities have been excellent, and thankfully we have no injury concerns to speak of at this stage. We are all looking forward to the challenge ahead, although there is no doubt that Portugal will provide a very stern test.”
Portugal arrive boasting a squad packed with talent from some of Europe’s top clubs and leagues, something Wright believes will provide invaluable experience for his young players.
“Their squad is packed with players performing at the highest level in some of the strongest leagues in world football, so we know exactly the calibre of opposition we are facing,” he explained. “However, these are the types of fixtures we want to be involved in. Playing against top-class teams is invaluable for our development and gives us the opportunity to measure ourselves against some of the very best.”
While some players have been unavailable the Northern Ireland manager sees the fixture as an opportunity for others to make their mark.
“Ideally, we would have had every player available, but at this stage of the season a number of players are managing injuries, while clubs understandably want some individuals rested and prepared for pre-season,” he said. “That said, it creates opportunities for others. We have several Irish League players in the squad who now have a chance to showcase their ability on the international stage, and hopefully they can grasp that opportunity and further their own careers.”
Wright is also hopeful of giving valuable game time to a number of players as his side looks to gain maximum benefit from the occasion.
“Overall, it is a fantastic occasion for us and one we simply could not turn down,” he added. “I am also hopeful of giving as many players as possible valuable minutes during the game.”
Despite the quality of the opposition, the Northern Ireland boss expects his players to embrace the challenge and remain true to the principles that have underpinned the team’s progress.
“Portugal pose a significant threat. They have outstanding talent throughout their squad, including players at clubs such as Chelsea and Benfica, and they have consistently proven themselves to be one of Europe’s strongest football nations,” Wright said. “Our task is to make the game as difficult and uncomfortable for them as possible. We want our players to be brave, disciplined and committed to the game plan. Those qualities are something I have worked hard to instil throughout my time in this role.”
And while acknowledging the scale of the task facing his side, Wright has no doubts about the character of the players representing Northern Ireland.
“What I do know is that our players will give everything for one another. They always do,” he said. “We have great spirit within the group and we are genuinely excited about the opportunity to test ourselves against elite opposition.”
