Steven Davis hails Michael O'Neill effect after 'magnificent night' for Northern Ireland
Friday 9 October 2015 00:18, UK
Northern Ireland captain Steven Davis hailed manager Michael O'Neill for leading the country to the Euro 2016 finals.
O'Neill's side beat Greece 3-1 at Windsor Park to ensure their place in next summer's tournament in France - their first major competition in 30 years.
Avoiding defeat in Finland in their final qualifier on Sunday will mean they top the group and Southampton's Davis, who scored twice on Thursday night, said it is a "dream come true" to go through.
"Michael O'Neill has been unbelievable since he came in; just his preparation and attention to detail; everything that he's done," Davis told Sky Sports.
"You can see we're a well organised side, everyone knows their roles and that's testament to the work that he's done, and I'm delighted for him and all the staff as well.
"It was a magnificent night and we couldn't have asked for it to go any better. It's a dream come true.
"We were aware it could have gone to Sunday, we were prepared for that, but we really wanted to get it done tonight. And there was no better place to do it than in front of our fans, who have pushed us all along this campaign.
"I think all the lads were desperate to get ourselves to France. It's a huge achievement for the squad, and the country, and we're going to enjoy tonight and then look forward to Sunday."
Northern Ireland have lost just once in qualification - a 2-0 defeat in Romania last November - and have won six to amass 20 points from nine matches.
Live Euro 2016 Qualifiers
Watch Finland v Northern Ireland live on Sky Sports 1 HD from 4.30pm on Sunday.
