Northern Ireland

Mission Accomplished for Sheffield Wednesday Duo as Teammate Earns Another England Call-Up

19/11/2024 Raymond 0

Sheffield Wednesday duo, Pierce and Shea Charles, played pivotal roles in Northern Ireland’s promotion to League B of the UEFA Nations League on Monday night. Despite a frustrating 2-2 draw against Luxembourg, which saw them squander a 2-0 lead, the point was enough to secure top spot in Group 3, as Bulgaria’s 1-1 draw with Belarus ensured Northern Ireland’s advancement. Shea, again captaining the side, provided an assist for Isaac Price’s opening goal, while his younger brother, Pierce, experienced a more challenging night, unable to prevent two quick goals from Luxembourg. However, both gained invaluable international experience from the match. Meanwhile, in England’s U21s fixture against the Netherlands, James Beadle made several key saves, though his side was held to a 1-1 draw. Across the Atlantic, Di’Shon Bernard was named in Steve McClaren’s XI for the second leg of the CONCACAF Nations League quarterfinal, hoping to help his side overturn a 1-0 deficit against the USA.

Rising Star: Sheffield Wednesday’s Young Leader Tipped for the Big Leagues

15/11/2024 Raymond 0

Sheffield Wednesday midfielder Shea Charles has been named captain of Northern Ireland for their Nations League clash against Belarus, making him the youngest player in the country’s history to hold the armband. The 21-year-old, currently on loan from Southampton, has impressed with his leadership on the pitch since joining the national team. Northern Ireland manager Michael O’Neill praised Charles for his responsibility and maturity, stating that the young midfielder has the qualities to play at the highest level. Charles, who admitted to being surprised by the honor, expressed his pride and eagerness to lead by example both on and off the field.

Sunderland’s Dan Ballard Weighs In on Regis Le Bris and the Impact of Managerial Changes

04/09/2024 Raymond 0

Dan Ballard, Sunderland’s defender, recently reflected on the club’s challenging previous season, marked by multiple managerial changes. He admitted that the constant turnover wasn’t ideal but highlighted a renewed sense of optimism at the Stadium of Light, driven by Sunderland’s strong start to the Championship. Ballard, who returned from injury last month, praised the clear and effective playing style under new manager Regis Le Bris, which has significantly boosted the team’s confidence. Despite the setbacks of last season, Ballard is optimistic about the future, both for Sunderland and his role in the Northern Ireland squad following Jonny Evans’ retirement from international football.

Goalkeeper could leave Sheffield Wednesday this summer – but no decision made yet

24/07/2024 Raymond 0

Pierce Charles, the promising 19-year-old goalkeeper for Sheffield Wednesday, may be heading out on loan this summer, though the final decision is yet to be made. Despite his impressive performances for Northern Ireland in the U19 European Championship, Charles is unlikely to see much playing time for his club this season, with James Beadle and Ben Hamer ahead of him in the pecking order. An injury to Hamer, however, has created an unexpected opportunity, and the club has brought George Shelvey in on trial. Sheffield Wednesday’s manager, Danny Röhl, is considering the best path forward for Charles, emphasizing the importance of his development and the possibility of a loan move.

Phil Hay says Stuart Dallas has been in talks with Leeds United over his next move after retirement

09/06/2024 Raymond 0

Phil Hay reports that Stuart Dallas has discussed his future with Leeds United following his retirement announcement due to a persistent knee injury. Dallas, 33, declared his retirement at the end of the season, marking over two years since his last game after a severe knee injury caused by a collision with Jack Grealish. Despite numerous surgeries and relentless rehabilitation efforts, Dallas was unable to make a comeback.

A crucial player under Marcelo Bielsa, Dallas was named Player of the Season during Leeds’ first season back in the Premier League. He concludes a nine-year career at Leeds, with 266 appearances for the club. The club’s retained list confirmed his departure as his contract expired. However, his future with Leeds might not be entirely over. Phil Hay, speaking on The Square Ball, mentioned that Dallas could remain at Elland Road in a new capacity, suggesting that there have been discussions about this possibility.

First Stoke City transfer of new era wins international call-up

23/05/2024 Raymond 0

Congratulations to Viktor Johansson, the new Stoke City goalkeeper, who has been named in the latest Sweden squad. The 25-year-old recently transferred from Rotherham United to the bet365 Stadium after head coach Steven Schumacher and new sporting director Jon Walters activated a relegation release clause, reportedly around £1 million.

Johansson earned his first senior international cap in October, coming on at halftime against Moldova. He has now been called up for friendlies against Denmark and Serbia. This continues a significant period for him personally, as his partner is also expecting their first child. Johansson hopes that his move to Stoke will bolster his international prospects.

Additionally, Johansson’s new Stoke teammate, Jordan Thompson, has been named in the Northern Ireland squad for their matches against Spain and Andorra.