Northern Ireland v Iceland: ‘International football gives belief you belong in Premier League’ – Stuart Dallas column

While the result in Denmark was disappointing, there are still positives to take from the game. Denmark deserved to win, and they are a level above where Northern Ireland currently are.

But it is where Michael O’Neill wants his team to be, and it was another good learning experience for his young squad.

Defensively, particularly in the first half, they were very good against a strong and creative attack but they will want to improve going forward. They needed to be more brave on the ball. They made a great start with the goal but didn’t really threaten after scoring, and I’m sure that will have disappointed Michael.

In that regard, I think Iceland in the perfect game to follow it up on Tuesday. As the home team, the onus is on you to take it to the opposition and play with the energy and desire to win the game. The crowd will play a role in that too, and we know how important Windsor Park can be.

I know Michael likes to play with a back three, but I think he will set the team up a little bit different to get his key players on the ball to try and make something happen.

Iceland got a fantastic result in Scotland but they aren’t of the same calibre as Denmark. They are probably in and around where Northern Ireland are and that presents an opportunity to be more of a goal threat.