West Ham United youngsters Callum Marshall and Michael Forbes received big chances for Northern Ireland yesterday, but it was a night to forget for their country.
Callum Marshall has been on fire for the West Ham under-21s this season, with 14 goals in nine games to his name (Transfermarkt), and he has been rewarded with three international caps for Northern Ireland now.
The 18-year-old has proven to be an excellent addition by Hammers boss David Moyes, and it’s clear to see that we have a future superstar on our hands.
Meanwhile, Michael Forbes has been a standout performer for the youth teams over the past 12 months or so, and the 19-year-old received his first cap for his country last night.
West Ham have some supremely talented young players amongst our ranks right now, and the Northern Irish duo receiving international caps already is a big sign that they’re good enough to make it at the highest level.
Unfortunately though, last night’s game was a horrendous one for both players and their country…
West Ham duo handed international caps
Marshall and Forbes were both brought on by Northern Ireland manager Michael O’Neill in the 85th minute of their Euro 2024 qualifying clash with Finland.
Unfortunately for the Hammers duo, their side were already 3-0 down when they came on, and they went on to lose 4-0!
Not a good day at the office for Marshall, Forbes and their country.
In fairness to both players, they are so young and rough around the edges still, and we all need to patient with them.
Northern Ireland have experienced a shocking qualifying campaign, and are currently sitting second from bottom in their group ahead of only San Marino, having taken just six points from nine games.
Marshall and Forbes definitely can’t be blamed for their country’s poor performance last night. It’s just great to see both teenagers be handed international minutes – that can only be a good thing for them.
West Ham already have plenty of international players and the way things are going, we’ll have loads more in the future as well.
It’s just such a shame for Marshall and Forbes that Northern Ireland experienced such a difficult evening last night out in Finland.
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