[monks data]

International Friendlies

Mar 24, 2016 at 7.45pm UK

Wales
1-1
N. Ireland Northern Ireland

Church (89')

FT(HT: 0-0)

Cathcart (60')

Michael O'Neill not expecting feisty Wales clash

By Barney Corkhill, Editor | 23 March 2016

Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill plays down comments from Wales boss Chris Coleman suggesting that the friendly between the two sides will be "feisty".

Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill has played down suggestions that his side's friendly with Wales on Thursday will be a heated encounter.

Wales boss Chris Coleman said that he expected a "feisty" clash between the home nations as both sides step up their preparations for this summer's European Championship.

O'Neill is hoping for a competitive meeting, but hinted that the players would have one eye on ensuring that they don't get injured ahead of the tournament.

"I think to an extent there will be an element of that," he told reporters.

"At this stage of the season, both sets of players have their eye on the summer. We want the game to be competitive, but there is an element of common sense prevailing for both sides as well.

"They are missing a few players, we are missing a few players as well. There are players coming in who will want to impress. I'm not overly concerned about that aspect."

Northern Ireland will be making their first appearance at a major international tournament for 20 years this summer, while Wales are ending a 58-year drought.