Croatia v Northern Ireland: ‘Integral’ Laura Rafferty closes in on 50 caps for NI

There have been a number of changes to the Northern Ireland squad from their final Euro 2025 qualifier in July at home to Bosnia-Herzegovina.

Former captain Marissa Callaghan and Glentoran’s Demi Vance are two high-profile omissions, with the likes of Joely Andrews, Nadene Caldwell, Caragh Hamilton and Kerry Beattie ruled out through injury.

On the absence of Callaghan and Vance, Oxtoby reiterated that “the door will remain open” for their return, but believes the squad has enough experience and quality to overcome Croatia despite the numerous alterations.

“Those conversations [on the absences] will remain private between myself and the players as I think that is respectful, they have been given feedback like every player does,” Oxtoby explained.

“We feel we have a great squad composition; we have a lot of tactically flexibility, so I feel like we’re in a really good place.”

Oxtoby was pleased to welcome Nottingham Forest defender Nat Johnson into a first squad since qualifying for Euro 2022, after impressing for her club.

“She’s fitted in really with this group, brought a lot of positive energy and really wants to be a sponge,” the manager added.

“She has been doing well with her club and has been rewarded with selection.”