Northern Ireland are not partying yet, says O’neill

The temptation for Northern Ireland supporters is to believe the hard work is done but Michael O’neill will not subscribe to that theory and he certainly does not expect his players to do so either.

A point against the Czech Republic at Windsor Park tonight will guarantee the Northern Irish finish second in their World Cup qualifying group and, in all probability, a play-off place but O’neill was keen to sound a note of caution.

“Whether the fans turn up for a party or not is their decision – there’s been no invitations,” the manager said. “It’s not going to be a party, the players aren’t expecting a party, we’ve nothing to celebrate just yet. We would have to play a play-off game so there is a lot more football to be played. If we do get second place it’s a fantastic achievement but it doesn’t guarantee us a place in Russia.”

Reaching last summer’s Euros has imbued this squad with selfbelief, even if the Czechs are likely to provide stiffer opposition than Greece did in the decisive qualifying game for France 2016.

The previous three meetings have ended goalless, including their last in Prague 12 months ago, and O’neill would no doubt gladly settle for a fourth, not least as he is missing two of his Premier League centre-halves through injury.

West Brom’s Gareth Mcauley has a thigh problem and Watford said over the weekend that Craig Cathcart requires surgery on a knee. It will place a huge onus on Jonny Evans to lead the defence and ensure another call-up for Aaron Hughes, 37, of Hearts. But with six clean sheets in seven, Northern Ireland have the joint best defensive record in European qualifying and O’neill hopes that will play on the Czechs’ minds to some degree.

“How do the other coaches view us? They can’t go back and show loads of goals against us,” O’neill said. “When you see this team hasn’t conceded for so many games it’s a big plus. It’s nice to be in position where opponents have difficulties picking holes in us.”

Northern Ireland (probable; 4-3-3): Mcgovern; Mclaughlin, Hughes, J Evans, Brunt; C Evans, Norwood, Davis; Magennis, Washington, Dallas.

Referee Daniele Orsata (Italy). Kick-off 7.45pm TV Sky Sports Mix.