Ali McCann says it’s been difficult to watch some of his football heroes step away from the international stage but the next generation is giving him plenty of hope for the future.
The Preston midfielder is only 24 years old but sometimes he feels like one of the more experienced heads in the changing room.
Northern Ireland boss Michael O’Neill is overseeing a revolution driven by young players who are hungry to showcase their talent.
The 5-0 demolition of Bulgaria was a benchmark performance from this maturing side, with McCann and Shea Charles impressing in midfield.
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Northern Ireland could secure promotion back to League B if they defeat Belarus at Windsor Park on Friday and Bulgaria fail to beat Luxembourg, who O’Neill’s men face in their final group game away from home next week.
The loss of classy operators such as Jonny Evans, Steven Davis and Stuart Dallas has been felt but new heroes are emerging.
“It is weird,” said the Edinburgh man. “Those three were probably the main three guys when I came in. When I first came in, they were the ones I took inspiration from.
“But Davo is still involved with the squad, Stuarty floats around a bit and Jonny has only really retired recently, so it has been gradual and not all at once.
“But it is different. Other players have to take responsibility, but it is going well so far.
“You know what Josh (Magennis) is like, he is great with everyone. Also the likes of Savs (George Saville) and Paddy McNair. There is a good mix of youth and experience which helps everyone in the squad.”
Among the new arrivals is Crystal Palace midfielder Justin Devenny, who has been called up to the squad for the first time.
The 21-year-old made his Premier League debut for Palace against Fulham at the weekend.
Devenny was a regular for Northern Ireland’s Under-21 team during their recent European Championship qualifying campaign.
“He trained with us this morning and looked really good. He made his Premier League debut at the weekend and he is only 21. That’s not bad,” added McCann.
“It is another quality player to come in. I am sure he will be in loads of squads for years to come.
“We’ve put ourselves in a good position now and we just want to win the last two games and stay top of the group and see what happens after that.”