IFA Programme 2016

Steven Davis: Building on success...

Inspirational skipper Steven Davis reckons a victory tonight can give Northern Ireland the platform for more success.

“It’s going to be a tough task for us but we’re coming into these games with expectation more than hoping and hopefully that’s a positive thing. “I don’t think there will be added pressure on us but there should be expectation. There’s a great feeling among the squad and the fans but there’s a realism as well. “We realise it’s going to be a tough group. Everybody expects Germany to win it. We believe we can put ourselves in a positive position to fight for second place.” Davis was one of the standout players in all four games in France. The ex-Rangers captain led by example against Poland, Ukraine, Germany and Wales but insists the focus has to be on the future. He added: “The summer was incredible for the fans and the players and staff. “Those memories will live with us forever and I’m proud to have captained that squad.

During the summer Davis captained his country at Euro 2016 - their first major tournament in 30 years - when Michael O’Neill’s men reached the knockout stages after an unforgettable victory over Ukraine in Lyon. Qualifying for the World Cup in Russia in 2018 will be a difficult task but Northern Ireland started their campaign reasonably well with a hard-fought point in Prague.   “I think it was a positive to come away from the Czech Republic, who are still a good side even though they’ve had a few retirements, with a point,” said the Southampton midfield star. “We know if we are going to do anything then we need to take maximum points from the games against San Marino - both home and away, however it will not be easy. “The draw in Prague gives us a platform and we know we can build on this and hopefully we’ll get back doing what we do best in these next two games.

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