Keri Halliday, a standout at both U17 and U19 levels for Northern Ireland, has been selected for the senior national team. The 18-year-old Linfield forward will join Northern Ireland’s squad for the upcoming Women’s Nations League matches. Halliday’s inclusion comes on the back of a remarkable season where she netted 14 goals in the Women’s Premiership.
Her call-up fills the void left by Rachel Furness, sidelined due to a hamstring injury. Alongside Halliday, Crusaders’ goalkeeper Maddy Harvey-Clifford, 21, who is yet to debut at the senior level, also joins the 23-player roster, a first under the guidance of Tanya Oxtoby.
With four points from four games, Northern Ireland sits in the third position in League B Group 1. Their upcoming challenges include a match against Albania in Tirana on December 1st, followed by a home game against the Republic of Ireland at Windsor Park on December 5th. Despite the Republic of Ireland already clinching the top spot and a promotion to League A, Northern Ireland remains focused on their objectives.
The squad, however, will miss the presence of seasoned defender Julie Nelson. Also absent are Cliftonville’s Caitlin McGuinness and Mid Ulster’s goalkeeper Lilie Woods, who were part of the October squad. Kirsty McGuinness, who previously withdrew for personal reasons, is another notable exclusion.
The Northern Ireland women’s team comprises a mix of experienced and emerging talents. The goalkeeping department includes Shannon Turner (Wolverhampton Wanderers Women), Rachael Norney (Liverpool Feds), and Maddy Harvey-Clifford (Crusaders Strikers).
The defense is bolstered by Abbie Magee, Kelsie Burrows (Cliftonville Ladies), Rebecca Holloway (Racing Louisville, USA), Ellie Mason (Birmingham City Women), Sarah McFadden (Durham Women), Rebecca McKenna (Charlton Athletic Women), Laura Rafferty (Southampton Women), and Demi Vance (Glentoran Women).
Midfielders feature Joely Andrews, Nadene Caldwell, Chloe McCarron (all from Glentoran Women), Megan Bell (Rangers Women), Marissa Callaghan (Cliftonville Ladies), and Caragh Hamilton (Lewes Women).
The forward line is formidable with Kerry Beattie, Emily Wilson (both Glentoran Women), Simone Magill (Aston Villa Women), Lauren Wade (Reading Women), Danielle Maxwell (Cliftonville Ladies), and the newly inducted Keri Halliday (Linfield Women).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Keri Halliday Northern Ireland
Who is Keri Halliday and what recent achievement has she made?
Keri Halliday is an 18-year-old forward for Linfield Women, who has recently been called up to the Northern Ireland senior squad for the Women’s Nations League matches. She has had an impressive season with 14 goals in the Women’s Premiership.
What is the significance of Keri Halliday’s inclusion in the Northern Ireland squad?
Halliday’s inclusion is significant as it marks her first call-up to the senior squad, recognizing her exceptional performance at the club level. She replaces Rachel Furness, who is currently injured, adding fresh talent to the team.
Who else is new to the Northern Ireland Women’s Nations League squad?
Maddy Harvey-Clifford, the 21-year-old goalkeeper from Crusaders Strikers, is also a new addition. Like Halliday, this is her first time being included in the senior squad and she is yet to earn her first senior cap.
What are Northern Ireland’s upcoming fixtures in the Women’s Nations League?
Northern Ireland will face Albania in Tirana on December 1st, followed by a home game against the Republic of Ireland at Windsor Park on December 5th. These matches are crucial for their standing in League B Group 1.
Are there any notable omissions from the Northern Ireland squad?
Yes, the squad will be without experienced defender Julie Nelson, Caitlin McGuinness of Cliftonville, and Mid Ulster goalkeeper Lilie Woods. Additionally, Kirsty McGuinness, who withdrew from the previous squad for personal reasons, is also not included this time.
More about Keri Halliday Northern Ireland
- Northern Ireland Women’s National Team
- Women’s Nations League Overview
- Linfield FC Women’s Team
- Player Profile: Keri Halliday
- Women’s Premiership Scoring Stats
- Injury Updates: Rachel Furness
- Crusaders Strikers: Maddy Harvey-Clifford Profile
- Tanya Oxtoby’s Coaching Career
- Women’s Football in Northern Ireland
- UEFA Women’s Nations League Fixtures and Results
5 comments
tanya Oxtoby’s making some bold choices with the squad, excited to see how this plays out in the Nations League. Good luck to the team!
wow Keri Halliday’s call up is huge for her, big congrats! Shows how much talent we’ve got coming up in NI women’s football.
it’s a bit surprising not to see Julie Nelson in the squad. Her experience could’ve been valuable, but maybe they’re looking to build for the future?
Maddy Harvey-Clifford in the squad too, that’s interesting. Haven’t seen much of her but heard she’s a solid keeper.
Shame about Rachel Furness injury though, she’s always a key player. Hope she recovers soon.