Northern Ireland v Israel

Words Mark McIntosh The Sun

‘I WILL PLAY IN ANY POSITION WHERE I AM NEEDED’ Paddy McNair is hoping to make up for lost time after a frustrating two years since Euro 2016.

At club and international level the defender/ midfielder’s versatility has made him a valuable member of eyery squad he’s been in. He has been playing in midfield with Sunderland and now Boro since returning from his long-term injury lay-offs and has even added goals to his game. He pointed out: “I’ve even played right-back a few times in my career. My ideal position is midfield but I will play in any position where I am needed. “In club football it’s good to be versatile but it can also work against you. As long as you’re in the eleven you’re happy. “I like getting box to box and joining up with the play. When I play at centre back I feel a bit restricted.”

The ex-Manchester United ace quit Old Trafford after returning from France in search of regular first team football but a succession of injuries blighted his time at Sunderland. Since then he has moved on to Championship promotion hopefuls Middlesbrough, however for the time being his sole focus is re-establishing himself in Michael O’Neill’s Northern Ireland side. “In the last couple of years I’ve had injury problems but that’s behind me,” he said. “I had a good pre-season for the first time in a couple of years so I’m feeling sharp. If the managers need me I’ll be ready for club and country after a couple of really frustrating seasons.” McNair was in the squad for Saturday’s UEFA Nations League clash against Bosnia and Herzegovina and is the panel for tonight’s friendly with Israel.

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