Conor Bradley is set to captain Northern Ireland for the first time in Saturday’s UEFA Nations League match against Belarus.
Coach Michael O’Neill officially confirmed the decision on Friday, selecting the Liverpool right-back to wear the armband at the ZTE Arena in Zalaegerszeg.
This match will mark Bradley’s 20th senior international appearance, during which he has scored three goals for his country to date.
“It’s going to be a really good night, and hopefully we can cap it off with a result to make it a really special night,” said Bradley.
“I’m really happy and I can’t wait for tomorrow now.”
He added: “I just like playing football and I just play the same football I’ve always played.
“I go out with the same smile on my face and give my all for the team, and nothing will change in that regard.”
O’Neill has been using this Nations League campaign to rotate the captaincy, seeking a new leader to emerge from a young squad following the retirements of Steven Davis and Jonny Evans from international football.
Trai Hume served as captain in both fixtures in September, but O’Neill now believes that Bradley is ready to take his turn.
“I think Conor has shown a lot of maturity,” said O’Neill.
“I’ve spoken to a lot of people at Liverpool and got their opinion, and they felt it was something he would handle.
“One thing I’ve found working with Conor is that he is very, very grounded, very serious about his football, and we obviously see that in his level of performance.”
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