Northern Ireland v Netherlands

“The atmosphere at the Germany game really helped us. We fed off that and if we’d taken our chances in the first half when we were on top it could have been a very different outcome. “We also showed against the Dutch that we were capable of hurting them in certain areas but the late goals were a real blow.” He is adamant the away result against Ronald Koeman’s charges is out of the system. “The most important thing now is to focus solely on this game and try to get the result everyone wants,” he said. “Any side coming to Windsor Park should know exactly what they are going to be up against. “Every international game is different but we believe we can put it to the bigger nations and it’s something we plan to do in these final two games, and in any potential play-off. “The fans will be right up for it and it would be brilliant to give Michael the send-off he deserves if this turns out to be his final game in charge at Windsor Park.” Smith is one of a number of Northern Ireland players who believe their careers have been enhanced by O’Neill. It promises to be an emotional night at Windsor and the ex-Ballymena United man insists the players are delighted to see the manager get the credit he deserves after eight unforgettable years at the helm. He added: “Michael has been brilliant for my career, and I’m sure all the lads will say the same. He’s given me my big chance in international football and I’ll always be grateful. “But it’s not just about when we met up; he’s always speaking to players to see how they are and he’s a great man manager for everyone. “Obviously we are disappointed that his time with Northern Ireland is coming to an end but, given the job he has done, it’s no surprise whatsoever that clubs have come looking for him. It’s a great opportunity for him and we all wish him well.” He said what the outgoing boss has done with Northern Ireland will live long in the memories of the players and fans alike. “Qualifying for a major tournament was something not many people thought was possible but he gave everyone the belief it could happen and the lads were brilliant in France. “We then got so close to qualifying for the World Cup and making it to the Euros next summer remains the objective now.” Smith has suffered a couple of niggling injuries at Hearts this season and it’s been a difficult time at club level. “Personally the season has gone fine for me at Hearts but obviously the manager (Craig Levein) was sacked,” he said. “I feel like I am playing well but when things are tough at club level coming away to meet up with the Northern Ireland squad is always a good distraction. “It gives you something else to focus on and there’s a really special spirit within the squad.”

MICHAEL SMITH

Position Right Back Date Of Birth 04.09.1988 Place Of Birth Ballyclare

RIGHT BACK

Height 180cm Weight 71kg

CLUB RECORD

2 SQUAD NO

CLUBS Ballyclare Comrades Ballymena United Bristol Rovers 101 Peterborough United 120 Heart of Midlothian 68

INTERNATIONAL RECORD

2 SQUAD NO

Debut 28.03.16 v Slovenia (H) Won 1-0

Caps 7 Goals 0

Northern Ireland U23

21

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