Priority to keep my place in the team,' says McConville before friendlies
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 4, 2026, 8:15 AM
Last updated Jun 4, 2026
Ruairi McConville, the Northern Ireland defender, emphasized the importance of upcoming friendlies against Guinea and France to solidify his position in the national team. With manager Michael O'Neill focused on strengthening the squad after signing a new contract through 2032, McConville sees these matches as crucial for showcasing potential. The friendlies come as nine players from the recent World Cup play-off squad are unavailable, creating opportunities for younger players like Braiden Graham, Caedach O'Neill, and Kieran Morrison. McConville aims to support these newcomers while also proving his own value ahead of the match against France on Monday.
- •McConville seeks to impress O'Neill in friendlies this summer.
- •Northern Ireland faces Guinea and France in two upcoming matches.
- •Manager O'Neill has committed to the team until 2032.
- •Nine players from the World Cup squad are unavailable for selection.
- •Young players are given a chance to showcase their skills.
- 8:15 AMYahoo Sports — 'Priority to keep my place in the team' - McConville
- 8:15 AMBBC Sport — 'Priority to keep my place in the team' - McConville
"Northern Ireland defender Ruairi McConville says the friendlies against Guinea and France are a chance "to impress Michael O'Neill and show him what you can do".
"Northern Ireland defender Ruairi McConville says the friendlies against Guinea and France are a chance "to impress Michael O'Neill and show him what you can do".
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJun 4, 2026, 8:15 AM'Priority to keep my place in the team' - McConville
Northern Ireland defender Ruairi McConville says the friendlies against Guinea and France are a chance "to impress Michael O'Neill and show him what you can do".
- BBC SportJun 4, 2026, 8:15 AM'Priority to keep my place in the team' - McConville
Northern Ireland defender Ruairi McConville says the friendlies against Guinea and France are a chance "to impress Michael O'Neill and show him what you can do".
Original reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
Related Stories
Last 14 days- Champions League•Jun 4, 2026, 9:54 AMLiverpool target Yan Diomandé: ‘I have loved PSG since I was a kid.’
- EPL•Jun 4, 2026, 9:54 AMTottenham’s opening bid for Jan Paul van Hecke rejected as Brighton resist raid
- EPL•Jun 4, 2026, 9:44 AMMan City consider action over Real candidate's promise to sign Haaland
- Champions League•Jun 4, 2026, 9:40 AMBarcelona identify former midfielder as Hansi Flick’s future successor – report
- Champions League•Jun 4, 2026, 9:40 AMRafael Leao: Man United’s interest in AC Milan star explained
- FIFA World Cup•Jun 4, 2026, 9:40 AM🏆 7 days to go: test your knowledge in the World Cup quiz
