Northern Ireland defender Gareth McAuley has stated that the team's qualification for Euro 2016 is down to the influence of manager Michael O'Neill.

The 3-1 win over Greece at Windsor Park on Thursday means that Northern Ireland will play at their first major tournament since the 1986 World Cup next summer and at their first European Championships.

Former Shamrock Rovers boss O'Neill took charge of the team in 2012 and, despite a poor qualification campaign for the 2014 World Cup, McAuley has stated that the players always had faith in his approach.

"In the past we've had one off games when we've got results but to qualify for this tournament, and done it in a bit of style, that's a massive credit to Michael," the West Bromwich Albion man told News Letter.

"When we go out there we've got a plan, and we believe in that plan and we carry it out. It's working so far and long may it continue. What Michael does, away from when we're with him is incredible. The detail he puts into it, what he gives us, he just gets it spot on.

"He went through a rough time in the World Cup qualification but we've scored goals in this campaign that were lacking in the last campaign it's all come together. We've had a little bit of luck but you deserve that after all the years of grafting."

Northern Ireland face Finland in their final qualifier on Sunday.

Written by
Steven Toplis