Demi Vance: Glentoran defender ‘fit and ready’ for Northern Ireland recall

Glentoran defender Demi Vance says she is “fit and ready” to play for Northern Ireland if she is recalled by manager Tanya Oxtoby.

Vance has won 95 caps but not featured for Northern Ireland since being left out of Oxtoby’s squad for October’s Euro 2025 play-off with Croatia.

The 33-year-old was one of the most experienced players in Northern Ireland’s Euro 2022 squad – the country’s first major women’s tournament.

“My performances haven’t been disappointing,” Vance told BBC Sport NI.

“On a personal level, I’ve been playing well and I was consistent at the end of last season even though we had a disappointing campaign [with Glentoran].

“It’s at the manager’s discretion but I’ll always be fit, ready and available to play.”

Vance said she had “sacrificed so much” to play for Northern Ireland and “it’s the pinnacle” of her career.

However, she was a surprise omission for the Euro play-off with Croatia as Oxtoby left her out along with former captain Marissa Callaghan.

Speaking after her decision, Australian Oxtoby said the “the door will remain open” for the pair but NI had “a great squad composition” as she integrated youth into her set-up.

While Callaghan has since announced her retirement from international football, Vance has signalled her intent to fight her way into Oxtoby’s plans.

“Playing for Northern Ireland is the most important thing you can do,” Vance added.

“I’m fit and ready to play. My confidence is good at the minute so we’ll see how we go.”