Devenny Embraces Wing-Back⁣ Role in Northern Ireland⁢ Defeat

Updated June 08, 2025
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Crystal Palace’s Justin Devenny ‍welcomed the ⁣challenge of playing wing-back for Northern Ireland despite their 2-1 defeat to Denmark in a friendly match Saturday. The international friendly in Copenhagen saw manager Michael O’Neill give the 21-year-old his first start in the⁢ wing-back position.

Devenny, fresh off an FA Cup win with Crystal Palace, delivered a strong‍ performance, contributing to Northern Ireland’s early goal while contending with Gustav Isaksen of Lazio.

“it was a new position⁤ for me, but⁢ I enjoyed it,” Devenny said,⁤ regarding his fourth cap. “Wherever I play for the team, I’m willing to do ⁢a shift.” He added that O’Neill had discussed the possibility and that his⁢ familiarity with the role at Palace⁢ helped him adapt.

O’Neill noted that Devenny’s ⁢comfort with the ball provided ‍a valuable option on the field. He previously deployed Brodie Spencer,a right-footed player,on the left ⁤side.

“I thought he did really well,” O’Neill said. “He gave us a nice outlet on the left-hand side as well in terms of his use of the ball, so he was a big, big positive.”

What’s next

Devenny looks forward to future opportunities to contribute to the team, irrespective of⁣ the position he‍ is asked to play, as Northern Ireland continues its international campaign.