Northern Ireland boss Ian Baraclough says Conor McMenamin earned his place at this week’s training camp in England thanks to an “exceptional” season in the Irish League.
McMenamin scored 22 goals in all competitions for Glentoran and was one of the standout attacking players in the Danske Bank Premiership.
The 26-year-old is the only player not to have been capped at any level to be invited to the four day get-together at St George’s Park.
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On McMenamin’s selection, Baraclough said: “It’s recognition for the really good season Conor has had.
“I think he’s been one of the top three outstanding players in the Irish League and there was an opportunity for him to come as a striker, wide man or as an attacking midfielder.
“Hopefully it also gives other players in the Irish League the thought that ‘if Conor’s here, why not me?’”
McMenamin met up with the 26-man squad after scoring in Friday night’s dramatic 4-2 defeat to Larne in the European play-off final at the BetMcLean Oval.
“He’s done very well in the first couple of days, having played a tough game and carried a slight knock,” said Baraclough.
“It’s one of those things. If you don’t look at people, if you don’t give people a chance, then you’re not going to be surprised by anyone, are you?”
With a raft of senior stars still with their clubs, Baraclough has selected a youthful panel of mostly U21 and U19 players for this week’s camp in Staffordshire.
Teenagers include Manchester United goalkeeper Dermot Mee (19), Manchester City defender Shea Charles (18), Derby County midfielder Darren Robinson (17), Leeds United midfielder Charlie Allen (18) and West Ham United defender Michael Forbes (18).
The youngest player is Brighton defender Ruairi McConville (17), while Norwich City left-back Sean Stewart (19) and Dungannon midfielder Terry Devlin (18) are also part of the squad.
Baraclough said: "We have integrated the young players and giving out messages that hopefully will develop those younger players for years to come and play for Northern Ireland at the very highest level."
The camp is part of Northern Ireland's preparations for next month's four games in the Nations League, kicking-off at home to Greece on June 2.
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