Northern Ireland manager Michael O’Neill has selected 20-year-old Portsmouth forward Eoin Kenny for the senior squad ahead of this month’s UEFA Nations League matches, brushing aside any concerns surrounding the player’s family background.
Kenny’s inclusion marks a significant step in his international career, having impressed at under-21 level under Tommy Wright. The call-up comes despite the young striker’s limited minutes at club level, suggesting O’Neill rates his potential highly.
Family background dismissed
The selection carries added intrigue given Kenny’s lineage—he is the son of Stephen Kenny, who previously managed the Republic of Ireland national team. However, O’Neill has made clear that such considerations play no role in his decision-making process.
“The background is not really that important for me, if I’m honest,” O’Neill stated. “I just look at the lad as a player.”
Nations League fixtures ahead
Northern Ireland will face Ukraine and Hungary in the upcoming Nations League fixtures this month. Kenny’s addition to the squad represents O’Neill’s confidence in blooding young talent during these competitive European fixtures.
The Portsmouth forward’s progression from under-21 football to senior selection demonstrates the manager’s willingness to integrate emerging players into his squad, regardless of external circumstances or family connections to rival nations’ management.