NI v Denmark(20/11/2023)

JAMAL LEWIS EAGER AND READY TO PUSH ON

He says any international window is always an “opportunity” any player should grasp with both hands, regardless of their club position. “It is difficult stepping into international football when you’re not playing much club football. It is a different style and level, and you are exposing yourself to a higher level,” he said. “But I have always enjoyed my time with Northern Ireland. During the two years when I didn’t play much for Newcastle, I always looked forward to the international windows. “It was an opportunity to get some game time. It is an opportunity you need to take with both hands.” Injuries have undoubtedly held him back, especially since he signed for Newcastle from Norwich in September 2020. He said: “Unfortunately I was one of those players who had part of their career dictated by wee niggles and injuries. I learned about my body, what works and what is fragile. “I always pride myself in being the hardest worker, and the last player off the training pitch. But I had to be smarter in the way I work and discover my weak points. I feel my body is in a great place now.” Five years on from his debut, Lewis admits his Northern Ireland career has been a “rollercoaster” so far. He said: “It has certainly been up and down. But I appreciate football for everything it has given to me. “I had some high spells and low spells, as any footballer will relate to. Hopefully I get more luck and keep pushing on and playing as many games as possible. “I am 25 and feel I should be in my prime, but also kicking on and improving. I am just appreciating it all and taking everything in.”

A lack of game time at Newcastle United was compounded by a series of niggling injuries that halted any progress at St James’ Park - and for Northern Ireland. But following a loan move to Championship side Watford in the summer, and after overcoming a calf problem which kept him out of September’s Euro qualifiers, Lewis is confident better days lie ahead. “I am loving it at Watford. I am enjoying playing football week in, week out,” said the 25-year-old. “It is a feeling every footballer wants. You only realise how important it is when you’re not playing regularly. “It was frustrating at Newcastle. Timing, injuries and things like that impacted on things. “They are still my parent club and I support the boys every week. But it was time for me to get my career back to where I needed it to be, and that was playing games at as high a level as I can.” Lewis, who made the PFA Championship Team of the Year in 2018-19 during a successful spell at Norwich City that ultimately led to his move to Newcastle, said he is in a good place these days. He pointed out: “I feel I am getting back to full fitness, and the levels I want to reach. It takes a long time to get there after being out for a while. `”You can play the odd game here and there, but to get the consistency and match fitness and sharpness, it takes time. “I think there is loads more to come from me, and I am looking forward to that. Hopefully me playing at a consistent level benefits Northern Ireland.” Lewis made his debut for Northern Ireland in 2018 against South Korea and has gone on to earn 32 caps for his country (prior to Friday’s game against Finland).

IRISHFA.COM

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