Northern Ireland is gearing up for their World Cup qualifying campaign, starting with crucial matches against Luxembourg and Germany in September. This marks their first competitive fixtures since March, and the squad's preparation is under intense scrutiny.

Injury Concerns

Michael O'Neill faces several injury challenges as he finalizes his squad. Key among them is Liverpool's Conor Bradley, who has missed the start of the Premier League season due to an unspecified injury. Bradley's fitness is critical, especially with a high-stakes game against Germany just four days after the Luxembourg match.

Goalkeeper Conor Hazard is also sidelined, recovering from a knee injury sustained in June. Additionally, Ciaron Brown and Jordan Thompson are racing against time to prove their fitness, with Thompson expected to miss the next couple of months following ankle surgery.

Positive Starts

Despite the injury woes, several Northern Ireland players have started the season strongly. Sunderland's Daniel Ballard and Trai Hume impressed in their Premier League debut, with Ballard scoring a crucial header. Isaac Price has been a standout performer for West Brom, netting three goals in two Championship games.

Summer Transfers

The summer transfer window saw many Northern Ireland players seeking new opportunities. Ethan Galbraith moved to Swansea City, while Jamie Donley joined Stoke City on loan. Brodie Spencer switched to Oxford United, and Dale Taylor made a permanent move to Blackpool.

Tough Qualifying Fixtures

Northern Ireland's path to the World Cup is fraught with challenges. They face familiar foes Luxembourg, who they have previously encountered in the Nations League, and a formidable German side. The team will also face Slovakia, a team that defeated them in a Euro 2020 play-off.

Upcoming Matches

• Luxembourg v Northern Ireland: Thursday, 4 September (19:45 BST)
• Germany v Northern Ireland: Sunday, 7 September (19:45 BST)
• Northern Ireland v Slovakia: Friday, 10 October (19:45 BST)
• Northern Ireland v Germany: Monday, 13 October (19:45 BST)
• Slovakia v Northern Ireland: Friday, 14 November (19:45 GMT)
• Northern Ireland v Luxembourg: Monday, 17 November (19:45 GMT)

Northern Ireland's quest for a World Cup spot since 1986 is a monumental task, but with key players finding form and strategic summer transfers, there is hope for a successful campaign.