Isaac Price Credits Managerial Freedom for International Success

Isaac Price has been a member of the Northern Ireland senior squad since March 2023, making notable contributions to the team.

The upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifier against Slovakia is set for Friday, 14 November, at 19:45 GMT, taking place in Košice, Slovakia. Fans can follow the match live on BBC Two NI and BBC iPlayer, with additional coverage available through live audio commentary on BBC Sports Extra, BBC Radio Ulster, and BBC Sounds, alongside live text commentary and in-play clips on the BBC Sport website and app.

Price, a 22-year-old midfielder for West Bromwich Albion, attributes his international goal-scoring achievements to the freedom that manager Michael O’Neill provides, allowing him to advance into attacking positions. He has netted 10 goals in just 26 appearances, including a hat-trick during a 5-0 Nations League victory against Bulgaria at Windsor Park in October 2024.

Reflecting on his earlier career, Price noted, “Before I joined Northern Ireland, I didn’t score many goals at all. I went through a stretch of 18 months where I only managed one goal, likely because I was playing deeper and didn’t believe in my goal-scoring abilities. Michael recognized my potential as an attacking threat and encouraged me to get into the box, leading to a 12-month period where I couldn’t stop scoring. The freedom he gives me allows me to be in and around the box, creating numerous opportunities.”

As Northern Ireland prepares for their final two World Cup qualifiers, they will face Slovakia away and then host Luxembourg in Belfast, aiming to secure second place in their group for a chance at the play-offs next March. O’Neill’s squad may have to rely on their previous Nations League success if they do not secure the runner-up position.

The team will be without key players such as Ethan Galbraith, Brodie Spencer, Shea Charles, and Ali McCann due to injuries. Price acknowledged the challenge ahead, stating, “These are two crucial matches for us. Although we are missing some key figures, it presents a significant opportunity for other players to step up. We are aware of the tough test Slovakia poses, especially since we previously defeated them 2-0 at home.”

Having made his international debut as a substitute against San Marino in March 2023, Price appreciates the supportive atmosphere within the squad. “It can be nerve-wracking for young players who might not have experienced these environments before, but it propels our development. The team’s youthfulness fosters an inclusive environment, and there is clarity in our playing style—a consistency that has been evident since I joined.”

With the squad demonstrating impressive performances on the international stage, Price believes they can handle the pressures of qualification. “There’s a prevailing confidence and belief that we are capable of participating in major tournaments. The expectations surrounding us have grown over the past six to 12 months, and I believe that higher expectations will only lead to our improvement. Everyone here is convinced of our potential to qualify for a major tournament.”