Wednesday 4 November 2015 16:43, UK
Michael O'Neill sprung few surprises when naming his Northern Ireland squad for the upcoming friendly against Latvia at Windsor Park.
The Northern Ireland manager secured the country's place at a major tournament for the first time in 30 years after guiding them to top spot in their European Championship qualifying campaign for France next summer.
Manchester United defender Paddy McNair suffered an abdominal injury in the last competitive match against Finland, so will take no part in the international friendly on November 13.
Striker Kyle Lafferty, who scored seven goals in qualifying, retains his place despite continuing to find club chances at Norwich limited.
However, there was no recall for striker Martin Paterson, who has just returned to English football with Blackpool after an injury-ruined spell in Major League Soccer with Orlando City.
Defender Aaron Hughes, now playing in Australia with Melbourne City, also misses the chance to win his 97th cap for his country.
O'Neill, who confirmed team officials are close to selecting a base for the tournament with further visits to France planned, said there may be room for a surprise inclusion ahead of the championships if a player impresses.
"There is always a chance for someone, it is just the start of November so there is plenty of football to be played domestically," he told Sky Sports News HQ.
"Players who have been called into the squad or those who are still being watched or are on the radar, there is always a chance. More than likely someone who is going to score goals will be the one who will catch our eye in terms of that late inclusion."
O'Neill also took time to praise his captain Steven Davis who has enjoyed a fine season for both club and country.
"Having spent time around the club at Southampton you see how valued Steven is down there," he said.
"He is a huge player for us - a great captain. I work very closely with him, we discuss training bases and everything on a regular basis and hopefully he continues in the vein of form he is in. A number of our players are playing very well at this moment in time."
Northern Ireland squad: Carroll, McGovern, Mannus; Baird, McAuley, Evans, Cathcart, Ferguson, Hodson, McLaughlin, Davis, Brunt, Evans, Norwood, McCourt, Dallas, Lafferty, McGinn, Ward, Magennis, McKay, Grigg, Boyce.
