"We are as strong as we can be..." O'Neill upbeat ahead of Germany
NI manager believes World Champions' visit will be players' biggest test
Michael O’Neill has warned his players to expect the challenge of their lives as they prepare to face the might of Germany.
But he believes he has picked a Northern Ireland squad capable of causing an upset in next week’s big World Cup qualifier at the National Stadium at Windsor Park.
He told Downtown & Cool FM: “We are strong as we can be given the injuries we have.
“The players have risen to the occasion right through this campaign and this will be another test for them - as big as test as you can get to be honest.
“We have got to look forward to these games.
“The players have earned the right to play the world champions in Belfast, to be second in the group and hopefully we can take something from the game.”
O’Neill has also welcomed back veteran centre-back Gareth McAuley who has been missing from the squad since picking up a thigh injury in June.
“Gareth is a player that we would rather have than not have – he gives us more flexibility,” he said.
“McAuley is one you want available all the time.”
Northern Ireland take on Germany on October 5 – k.o 7.45pm