Ferguson happy O’Neill is staying on

Northern Ireland's Shane Ferguson celebrates scoring against Finland last year.

The talented winger, who is on loan at Birmingham City from Premier League side Newcastle United, is struggling to be fit for Friday night’s friendly international in Turkey.

The former Maiden City Academy player has been impressed by O’Neill since his appointment and despite all the rumours that he was going to follow fellow Londonderry men Darron Gibson and James McClean to play for the Republic of Ireland, Ferguson had already made his mind up.

“Michael phoned me as soon as he got the job. I was at the Newcastle training ground and couldn’t believe he called me so quickly,” admitted the 22-year-old.

“He wanted me to know he would like me in his squad and asked if I wanted to play after all the rumours.

“I put him straight and it was a very easy decision for me to commit to Northern Ireland. Since then I have played nearly every game when I have been fit.

“Michael gave me that chance and playing for Northern Ireland has been a huge benefit to my career because it really has got my name out there.

“He has been such a help to me and I know the rest of the lads are really happy he will be staying for another two years at least.”

Another Foylesider who has done well under O’Neill’s leadership is ex-Derry City left-back Danny Lafferty.

In fact Lafferty and the former Eglinton Eagles man have in recent games been Northern Ireland’s attacking threat down their left hand side and he believes there are more to come from the young Northern Ireland squad.

“Danny and I know each other from growing up in Derry so to play in the international team with him has been great,” added Ferguson.

“There are a lot of young lads in the squad now and that shows Michael is prepared to give them a chance.

“It’s not just Danny and I; Ollie Norwood and Lee Hodson have come in and done really well, too.

“If any young lads are good enough, they will get a chance to play at the highest level.

“If you are playing international football, it can only help your club career and hopefully that will make the international team stronger in the next few years.”