'Real buzz' around Northern Ireland - Charles

What the report says

Northern Ireland midfielder Shea Charles has reflected positively on his team’s unbeaten Nations League window, saying he could not be happier with how the squad has started the campaign. Speaking after the four-match stretch, he said the mood in the country and in the dressing room is upbeat as Michael O’Neill’s side sit top of League B Group 2.

BBC Sport reported that Northern Ireland were the only team in the competition not to concede during the international break. Their results included a win away to Georgia, a 0-0 draw at home to Hungary, a strong away victory over Ukraine in Trnava, and another goalless draw against Georgia in Belfast. Charles said the team had handled tight matches with professionalism and maturity, especially away from home.

The article also highlighted the role of the extended window in giving younger players chances to play. Liverpool teenager Kieran Morrison made his competitive debut, while defenders Ruairi McConville and Tom Atcheson also featured prominently. Ceadach O’Neill earned his fourth cap, which removes his ability to switch allegiance, underlining the competition for places in a young squad.

Charles said the team’s depth and internal competition are helping standards rise, and he expects the goals to come at home as the campaign continues. Northern Ireland will return to action in November.