Northern Ireland: Michael O’Neill believes his team have a blueprint for success in Bulgaria

O’Neill added: “We gave away very few chances in the games against two teams who were clearly preparing for Euro 2024 and we were always a threat on the counter-attack. We could have won the game in Bucharest as well.

“I think that gives you a lot of confidence, especially the younger players, that they can play out in difficult circumstances and still compete and get something out of the game.”

While goals are still a problem for the team – both times against Luxembourg they were scored by defenders in set-piece situations – Northern Ireland are showing increasing solidity in defence.

In the first nine games of O’Neill’s second spell in charge, they have only recorded victories against San Marino, while a 4-0 defeat to Finland was a particular low point.

But after beating Denmark in their final Euro 2024 qualifier, they have now kept four clean sheets in six games, each time with a changing defence, creating a basis for improved form.

“The biggest difference is that, apart from Spain, we have only conceded one goal in six games,” said O’Neill.

“Before the match against Denmark, we conceded four goals in Helsinki. That was a difficult evening for us, with a very young team.

“You also have to look at the game with a different mentality away from home.

“That doesn’t mean we don’t want to be at the forefront, but we have to be careful in the way we approach the match.”