Fleetwood Town defender Conor McLaughlin has been selected for the Northern Ireland under 21’s enticing fixture against England at Bloomfield Road next week.
By Tom BestwickFleetwood Town defender Conor McLaughlin has been selected for the Northern Ireland under 21’s enticing fixture against England at Bloomfield Road next week.
A start for McLaughlin will mean 7 caps for the Irishman – including a full appearance against Italy in 2011. “I can’t wait for the game; Bloomfield Road is only round the corner from my house, I am excited already. It’s only a week away and I can’t wait to join up. It’s going to be a tough game to say the least, but they are the games you want to play in. “With the players England have got we are not expecting to pass them off the park, but we have got quality players as well and I am sure we can get a result out of it if we work hard, and try and keep the ball as much as we can. “I have played centre half, right back and centre midfield for Northern Ireland, there’s going to be quality players where ever I play, it just depends if it is Premiership or not, they have a team of stars that’s for sure.” McLaughlin has stepped up to the mark in the absence of Shaun Beeley, who has had a thigh injury, and whilst his form has seen him get his call up, he has also gained some much needed match sharpness back. “It’s been good to get back playing regular football, I have played four or five in a row now, and I feel like I am getting my match sharpness back. That’s going to come in handy to address match fitness and match sharpness next week.” McLaughlin won’t be short of support from the stands either. His teammates have been quick to congratulate the 21 year old, and they are hoping they are amongst the crowd cheering on McLaughlin on the “massive stage.” “A few of the lads have sent they are going to come; I am going to have trouble getting tickets for everyone, it seems we are going to have a good crowd, and hopefully we do well in front of them. “It would be good to see some of the Cod Army at the game as well “It’s a massive stage, playing against players playing in the Premiership; it doesn’t get much bigger really. I am sure most of the lads in the team will be looking forward to it, and hopefully we can pull off a result.” The friendly at Bloomfield Road on Tuesday 13th November kicks off at 7.30pm.Tickets are still on sale for the game and can be purchased in person at the Bloomfield Road Ticket Office by calling 0844 847 1953 or online at www.eticketing.co.uk/blackpoolfc.
The tickets are priced as follows:
- Adults £10
- Children £5
- Family ticket (two adults and two children) £25