Gareth McAuley: Boss says his U19s could form 'backbone' of NI's Euro 2028 squad

McAuley scored one of the most iconic goals in Northern Ireland's history when he netted against Ukraine at Euro 2016

Gareth McAuley has urged fans to get behind his under-19 international players who he believes could form "the backbone" of a Northern Ireland team playing at home at Euro 2028.

McAuley's side continue preparations for next year's Northern Ireland-hosted Uefa U19 Finals in a four nations tournament at Inver Park next week.

Northern Ireland will face Portugal, the Czech Republic and Hungary.

"Hopefully the fans come out and make a connection with these kids," he said.

"Go on that journey with them and see if they can follow them through to Euro 2028 and be a part of something pretty special."

McAuley was a hugely popular player for Northern Ireland and earned iconic status amongst their supporters when he scored the country's first-ever goal at a European Championship finals in 2016.

'It will be fantastic to host Euro 2028 games'

The 80-times capped Larne native says that Northern Ireland being part of the UK and Ireland hosted tournament is something that should excite fans.

"It will be fantastic to be able to stage games in Northern Ireland. We saw the impact of 2016 and everybody at the fan zones and things like that there."

While there are misgiving from many Northern Ireland fans about redeveloped GAA venue Casement Park - which has yet to be rebuilt - being the country's host venue, McAuley believes there will be "buy in from everybody if some of the top nations are coming to Northern Ireland".

"It would be fantastic and hopefully things can be sorted out and we're able to take part and host games here."

Prior to that, Northern Ireland is hosting next year's European Under-19 Finals when McAuley's side will be joined by seven other nations.

Gareth McAuley says he is working closely with senior NI boss and U21 manager Tommy Wright to ensure that pathways are there to bring new talent through

A further incentive at the Northern Ireland-hosted tournament will be qualification for the next Under-20 World Cup which the top five finishers were earn.

"That's the carrot for my boys," said McAuley of the chance to earn an U20 World Cup spot.

The Northern Ireland boss says the Inver Park games represent important preparation for next year's tournament.

"It's all about getting to play, recovery and play again.

"We've got a strong pool of players. There are 22 players in next week's group. We're doubled up in each position and they are all equal to each other."

And with several of Michael O'Neill's senior squad coming towards the end of their international careers, McAuley says some of his youngsters could find themselves earning full caps in the not too distant future.

"Michael has taken a keen eye on it. He did so before and maybe even more so this time in having to look at the underage groups for players that are able to step up.

"It's great to work with him so closely and be able to pick his brain as well.

"We're in discussions about all the time and with [U21 manager] Tommy Wright as well and putting together squads and pathways for the players and getting them through."