Northern Ireland hand five debut call-ups for Portugal World Cup play-off
Michael McArdle has named five first-time internationals in a 23-player squad for Northern Ireland's 2027 Women's World Cup play-off with Portugal, with injuries opening the door for new faces.
Northern Ireland manager Michael McArdle has included five uncapped players in his 23-strong squad for the 2027 Women's World Cup play-off against Portugal, a tie in which his side will be underdogs. A lengthy injury list forced changes, with Simone Magill, Danielle Maxwell and Caragh Hamilton all unavailable, creating opportunities for newcomers.
The most notable inclusion is Sparta Prague attacker Kess Elmore, 27, who qualifies through her father from Lisburn. Elmore came through Liverpool's academy, played college football in the United States and has since featured for Saint Etienne, Brooklyn FC and St Polten, including Champions League experience against Chelsea and Lyon. McArdle highlighted her versatility across the forward line and her attacking creativity as key attributes.
Cavan-born left-back Lucy-Jayne Grant, 22, also earns a first call-up. She plays for Galway United in the League of Ireland and helped the club win the cross-border All-Island Cup in 2024. McArdle said Grant had been identified early in his tenure and had impressed over the summer and as a training player, adding depth on the left side of defence.
Three Women's Premiership players are also rewarded. Glentoran attacking midfielder Naomi McLaughlin, 20, has impressed since returning to Northern Ireland, while Linfield full-back Jane McMaster, 22, has been a consistent performer and can also play centre-back. At 16, Cliftonville midfielder Charlotte Havern is the youngest in the squad after helping her club to a Premiership and League Cup double.
The selections underline the continued role of the domestic league, with eight of McArdle's players based in Northern Ireland. While the absences are a setback, the manager framed the new call-ups as deserved rewards for form and versatility, giving his squad fresh options for the Portugal play-off.
Image: Getty Images / BBC Sport
