As Jonny Evans celebrates his 38th birthday today, we look at some of his best moments playing for Northern Ireland…
On 6 September 2006 Evans made his senior debut for his country against Spain in a UEFA Euro 2008 qualifier.
La Roja boasted a line-up that featured world class players such as Sergio Ramos, Xavi, Iker Casillas and many others, however Northern Ireland pulled off a stunning 3-2 victory in front of 14,500 fans at Windsor Park thanks to a David Healy hat-trick.
After a home defeat against Iceland in their previous game then manager Lawrie Sanchez opted to start the 18-year-old Evans in defence - and the rest is history.
Three years later he scored his first international goal in a 3-2 win over Poland in a FIFA World Cup 2010 qualifier. The centre back was able to volley home a close range effort.
He would end up scoring five more goals for the national team during his illustrious career. And he played for his country on 107 occasions, his final appearance coming in June 2024 in a friendly against Spain.
During Euro 2016 in France, Evans featured in all four matches for Northern Ireland, playing a key role in the team’s progress.
When Michael O’Neill’s side secured the 2-0 victory over Ukraine in their second group game, he called it “a dream come true”. Northern Ireland would, of course, eventually make it to the Round of 16 at the Euros, their first major tournament since the 1986 FIFA World Cup.
Evans, who was awarded an MBE in 2023 for services to association football in Northern Ireland, had a successful career at club level with Manchester United, West Bromwich Albion and Leicester City among others.
Alongside that the polished defender established himself as one of the best talents to represent Northern Ireland, displaying exceptional leadership along with his stellar play.
Happy Birthday Jonny!
