Northern Ireland's U21 side face a tough test on Tuesday when they welcome Ukraine to Shamrock Park.
Watch N Ireland U21 v Ukraine U21 live on Sky Sports 1 from 7.30pm
Northern Ireland's U21 side face a tough test on Tuesday when they welcome Ukraine to Shamrock Park.
The eastern European outfit secured a credible draw with European Championship-bound Serbia last week and will have been buoyed that result.
Northern Ireland boss Steve Beaglehole admits that he is expecting to be pushed all the way during the midweek friendly, but enters the game in confident mood.
He said: "Ukraine are technically a very good side and their squad is full of athletes.
"It is a fixture we are looking forward to as it will tell us how far we have come and how far we need to go."
Plymouth defender Craig Cathcart, who is on loan at the Pilgrims from Manchester United, will retain the captaincy after wearing the armband in a victory against Scotland in November.
Honour
Beaglehole said: "Craig is the one with the most experience in the squad and deserves the honour.
"I was very pleased with his contribution when we played Scotland, both on and off the field. He has also played all season for Plymouth and done a good job there."
Beaglehole also has high expectations for another Old Trafford youngster, Corry Evans, the younger brother of United centre-half Jonny.
The 18-year-old has been a regular for the Red Devils' reserves this season and can operate in midfield as well as at the back.
Beaglehole said: "Corry has a good football brain and is able to play in a number of positions. He is a bit like Jonny in that respect."
