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Steven Crawford

Carl Frampton backs in-form Northern Ireland striker to get qualifier nod

Carl Frampton believes he knows one man who will definitely be starting Northern Ireland's two Euro 2024 qualifiers this coming week.

Michael O'Neill's second spell as international boss kicks off in San Marino on Thursday evening before Finland head to Windsor Park next Sunday night.

O'Neill has named a 26-strong squad for the doubleheader but Frampton feels one man has played himself into the starting 11 as they bid to deliver a knockout blow to their Group H opponents.

Read next: Fixture dilemma for Glenavon as Gary Hamilton reveals club has a decision to make

Dale Taylor has impressed for Burton Albion since joining on loan from Nottingham Forest in January.

The former Linfield man bagged at brace in the 3-2 win over Port Vale on Saturday taking him to four goals in 10 games for the Brewers and leading Frampton to call for him to start for his country.

"Another 2 @burtonalbionfc goals for @DaleTaylor92 today. It will be hard for Michael not to start him for the Euro qualifiers coming up," tweeted the Northern Ireland fan.

Taylor was recalled to the Northern Ireland squad for the games against San Marino and Finland after last featuring in the World Cup qualifier against Lithuania in November 2021 when he earned his one cap to date.

The 19-year-old has progressed through the Forest ranks since joining from the Blues in 2020.

He had recorded four goal involvements in seven Premier League 2 games before joining Burton in January.

After making the switch Taylor said: “Playing in League One is a great opportunity to gain experience of men’s football and I can’t wait to get started.

“It’s going to be tough and senior football will be different but hopefully I can keep up the scoring this season.”

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