Crystal Palace youngster earns first senior international call-up
Summer signing Kofi Balmer could earn his first cap next week with Northern Ireland preparing for a Nations League double-header against Kosovo at the National Stadium in Belfast, followed by a trip to Athens to take on Greece in their final Group C2 match.
Balmer joined Palace from Northern Ireland Football League Premiership side Larne and has already represented his country at various levels.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdThe 21 year old has featured in every match for Palace’s under 21 side this season and Northern Ireland manager Ian Barraclough says the call-up is well-deserved.
“He missed out in the summer but he has got himself a great move to Crystal Palace, he has settled there now and is enjoying his surroundings,” Baraclough said.
“It is testament to how hard he has worked to get noticed by a big club in England, and he is hoping to take his chance this year.”
Northern Ireland are yet to win in the Nations League and this campaign has seen them draw two and suffer two defeats.
Comment Guidelines
National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.