Big night ahead for Bara's boys with skipper Steve set to equal caps record

Steven Davis
Author: Nigel GouldPublished 7th Sep 2020

Ian Baraclough seeks his first win at Windsor Park as Northern Ireland boss tonight (Monday).

His side host Norway in the Nations League.

Due to covid restrictions, the match will be played behind closed doors.

And after the late drama of Friday's 1-1 draw with Romania in Bucharest, Northern Ireland will look to build on their first-ever point in the competition.

Captain Steven Davis should start the game, and when he does he will move level with goalkeeping great Pat Jennings as Northern Ireland's most capped player with 119 appearances.

Though now 35, Davis shows few signs of slowing down and remains part of the side's spine as he has been now for 15 years.

"He's a role model,'' said his midfield partner George Saville. "I think I can speak for everyone inside the camp, you can't speak highly enough of Davo, he's a tremendous pro and deserves all the plaudits he gets.''

Jonny Evans

Jonny Evans missed Friday's trip to Bucharest for personal reasons, but is back in contention to start later.

Though Arsenal youngster Daniel Ballard put in a solid debut performance in his place against Romania, the vastly experienced Evans will be welcomed back.

The Leicester man's quality could be invaluable against a Norway side boasting a feared frontline in the shape of Joshua King and young Borussia Dortmund sensation Erling Haaland.

The game kicks off at 7.45.