Euro 2016

Steven Davis revels in "huge" Northern Ireland achievement

By Daniel Lewis, Senior Reporter | 14 November 2015

Steven Davis says that he has taken inspiration from Northern Ireland's past captains to help guide his nation to the "huge" achievement of Euro 2016 qualification.

Northern Ireland skipper Steven Davis has admitted that he has taken great pride in leading his country to Euro 2016.

The 30-year-old played a key part for the Green and White Army as they defied the odds to finish top of their qualifying group.

With a place at next summer's finals in the bag, Davis again proved influential when scoring the only goal of the game in Friday night's friendly win over Latvia.

Speaking to club side Southampton's official website prior to that victory at Windsor Park, the midfielder said of Ireland's achievement: "It's huge. If you look back, we've never qualified for the Euros before.

"The last time we qualified for the World Cup was in 1986, so it tells you how difficult it has been. I think I look back at the World Cup captains from before and take inspiration from them.

"[I'm] obviously delighted and very proud to wear the armband. Very proud just to play for Northern Ireland, to lead the team and qualify for the major tournament. I'm really looking forward to leading the team out in France."

Northern Ireland finished one point ahead of Romania in Group F and five clear of third-placed Hungary.