While there was some short-term pain back in 2023, Northern Ireland and manager O’Neill have seen the benefits of introducing players to senior international football at a young age.<\/p>\n
Those youngsters have blossomed into seasoned internationals, and the next generation are starting to get their chance.<\/p>\n
In the second half, Arsenal teenager Ceadach O’Neill was handed his debut off the bench, and while Everton’s 18-year-old Braiden Graham did not get on the pitch in Spain, it will only be a matter of time before he earns a senior cap.<\/p>\n
Goalkeeper Pierce Charles – only 20 and linked with a move away from Sheffield Wednesday – got another 45 minutes under his belt and, like many of his team-mates, is wise beyond his years.<\/p>\n
With O’Neill’s future as manager now certain after he signed a new deal until 2032, the trajectory of the team is clear. <\/p>\n
“It’s really good, I feel like one of the old ones now, which is a bit mad,” said Southampton midfielder Charles, Pierce’s older brother, who has 35 caps at 22 years of age.<\/p>\n
“It’s a really good group and it has been for a few years now. <\/p>\n
“It’s really important to get the younger ones to mould into the group well and playing games is only going to help that.”<\/p>\n
Charles also praised Atcheson despite his red card, saying he will “bounce back” from his dismissal.<\/p>\n