Conor Gallagher helped England to a 3-0 win against Albania with a stunning effort as other Addicks on international duty prepare for crucial games in the last international break of the calendar year.
Josh Cullen and the Republic of Ireland prepared for Monday night’s decisive Euro 2020 qualifier against Denmark with a 3-1 friendly win against New Zealand in Dublin, Cullen playing all 90 minutes of the victory.
Mick McCarthy’s side now welcomes Denmark to the Aviva Stadium, knowing that three points will grant the Boys In Green qualification from Group D.
Gallagher continued his impressive form this campaign, scoring a stunning left-footed drive from 25 yards in England U21s 3-0 victory against Albania.
Following the successful outing, Gallagher spoke to the travelling media, opening up about his progression following heart surgery 15 months ago:
“Ever since it happened, after the surgery, I’ve just wanted to prove myself. I’ve come back fitter and stronger.
“I’ve set myself small targets and I feel that’s the better way to do it because I didn’t expect to be starting on Friday.
“I did - and then I did well. I can set more targets. It definitely drives me on because it’s a bit of a scare, isn’t it?
“It makes you appreciate it more when you’re out there on the pitch playing. You have to give 100% because every single one of us is lucky to be here.”
“For some players maybe it gets too much for them, but I’m taking every game as it comes and just believing in myself."
The 19-year old also spoke about his impressive start to life in the Championship that has seen Gallagher notch five goals and an assist.
“I’ve just started to realise, in the last few games, that they don’t mess about in the Championship! I’ve got a few knocks and bruises.
“I didn’t expect to be at this point, to be fair, but it proves that if you work hard and believe in yourself you can achieve things that maybe you didn’t think you could.”
Gallagher and the Young Lions face the Netherlands in Doitenchem next on Tuesday.
Wales claimed a hugely important 2-0 victory in Azerbaijan as Tom Lockyer started and played all 90 minutes. Three points on Tuesday night against Hungary would see Ryan Giggs’ side qualify automatically for next summer’s European Championships.
Beram Kayal played 79 minutes as Israel lost 2-1 to Poland in Jerusalem. Despite currently occupying fourth spot in their group, the Israelis have already earned a place in March’s playoffs due to a strong UEFA Nations League performance.
