Jamie Ward credits Michael O'Neill for Northern Ireland's recent success

Nottingham Forest forward Jamie Ward believes manager Michael O'Neill deserves plenty of credit for taking Northern Ireland to the brink of a first European Championship.

The Irish go into their Group F European Qualifier double header against Greece and Finland needing one victory to secure a place in France next summer.

Ward won his first caps for Northern Ireland under Nigel Worthington, but he reckons the set up has completely changed since O'Neill settled into his role.

"When I first came in results never really went for us, and I was lucky to get a game under Nigel," Ward said.

"A lot of things have changed since then, we seem to have got some shape about us, we've been structured in the way Michael wants us to be when we've not got the ball.

"Younger, fresher legs help too, new blood always does. The place has been freshened up with new players.

"Maybe the players who've come in have wanted to prove a point that they can play at this level and do a job.

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"Michael wasn't afraid to change the squad and bring in new faces, which the previous regime was.

"I think he's proved how good he is. Taking this job he had nothing to lose because did anyone really expect us to do anything? Not really.

"He's helped prove we're good enough."

Hamilton goalkeeper Michael McGovern had an evening to forget against Hungary last month, when his error allowed the visitors to take the lead in the 1-1 draw at Wndsor Park.

McGovern's place could be in jeopardy after the slip, but he insists he welcomes competition from both Roy Carroll of Notts County and St Johnstone's Alan Mannus for his place.

"The competition is great for all of us, it's tough but that is what we want," McGovern said.

"To get the nod last time was a big achievement for me. Roy has been excellent since he came back into the squad under Michael and big Alan has been one of the best goalkeepers in Scotland for the past four years.

"I have waited a long time to get a chance and all I can do is try to take the opportunity.

"Michael watches all of us. It was good to know he was keeping an eye on me, coming to a couple of my games after the last double header, so he was there to see how I reacted after the Hungary game and thankfully my form has been good.

"I was disappointed with the goal I conceded in the last game, but as a goalkeeper you have to accept that sometimes that will happen."

Watch Northern Ireland against Greece live on Sky Sports 5 HD from 7.30pm on Thursday night.