After a four-game window with plenty of positives for Northern Ireland, there was perhaps just one lingering concern – their ability to score goals consistently.
Tottenham Hotspur’s Jamie Donley started as a lone striker throughout the quartet of Nations League fixtures, even though the 21-year-old has stated he feels his more natural position is number 10.
Despite impressing with his ability to push Northern Ireland up the field, drop into space, frustrate the opposition and, as a result, win plenty of free-kicks, he failed to add to his two international goals across the window where his side won twice but were frustrated in a pair of goalless home draws.
Spearheading the attack for a young side who have already proven they are hard to break down at the other end, Donley’s failure to score despite playing 294 minutes across the four games will be cause for concern.
“I’ve enjoyed it, playing all four games,” said the player on loan at Luton Town.
“I’m obviously a little bit disappointed not to score. I think that’s my aim role as a striker, but I think Michael [O’Neill] likes me to link the ball up and help with the build-up plays.
“Hopefully, I can add some goals to my game.”
