Northern Ireland: Liverpool’s Conor Bradley a ‘really special’ talent says NI boss Michael O’Neill

Nottingham Forest defender Aaron Donnelly made his international debut as a second-half replacement, following on from St Mirren midfielder Caolan Boyd-Munce who won his first cap against Spain last week.

West Ham forward Callum Marshall, who created Bradley’s opening goal and had a good opportunity at the end of the first half, was making his first start for Northern Ireland.

“Overall, I think it was a good exercise for us,” said O’Neill.

“At 2-0 we were comfortable in the game. We scored two good goals and we probably should have scored more, if we’re honest. We were a bit disappointed we didn’t get a goal in the second half.

“These lads are at the start of their careers and we are trying to help them and show they can play international football.

“It can be difficult to break through at top clubs and some players are on loans. We can assist them so they can play as high a level as possible, but the key for us was to give players opportunities and they have got caps.”