Sheffield United: Daniel Lafferty's call-up is a bitter/sweet moment for The Blades

Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder has praised Northern Ireland's handling of Daniel Lafferty's call-up for this weekend's World Cup qualifier against Norway at Windsor Park.
Daniel Lafferty (left) has been called-up by Northern Ireland. Pic credit should read: Jamie Tyerman/SportimageDaniel Lafferty (left) has been called-up by Northern Ireland. Pic credit should read: Jamie Tyerman/Sportimage
Daniel Lafferty (left) has been called-up by Northern Ireland. Pic credit should read: Jamie Tyerman/Sportimage

Michael O’Neill initially placed the wing-back on stand-by ahead of Sunday’s Group C fixture, admitting it would be wrong to select players who would otherwise be involved in important domestic matches unless they “have a real opportunity to push for a start.”

Although the circumstances which last night saw Lafferty summoned to Belfast remain unclear, Wilder acknowledged he deserved another opportunity at international level, despite expressing his regret the 27-year-old will miss Saturday’s meeting with Oldham Athletic as a result.

Chris Wilder hopes Daniel Lafferty gets his chance to feature against Norway. Pic David Klein/SportimageChris Wilder hopes Daniel Lafferty gets his chance to feature against Norway. Pic David Klein/Sportimage
Chris Wilder hopes Daniel Lafferty gets his chance to feature against Norway. Pic David Klein/Sportimage
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“It’s a great chance for Daniel but, obviously, we are disappointed he’s going to be unavailable for our next game,” Wilder said.

United, the League One leaders, moved 10 points clear of third-placed Fleetwood Town when they beat Charlton Athletic four days ago.

Questioned on O’Neill’s refusal to draft Lafferty unless he had a strong chance of winning his first cap since March last year, Wilder said: “It was good to hear that. Championship and Prem games get postponed but ours don’t unless there’s a number of call-ups.

“We’d love Danny to be involved and we’d love him to be here and playing for us. I totally understand the view of Michael too.

Daniel Lafferty trains with Sheffield United. Picture Simon Bellis/SportimageDaniel Lafferty trains with Sheffield United. Picture Simon Bellis/Sportimage
Daniel Lafferty trains with Sheffield United. Picture Simon Bellis/Sportimage
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I like to think he wouldn’t drag players over if they aren’t going to be involved if they aren’t going to play, especially when they can stay and be involved in a very important fixture, in a very important season, for us.”