Northern Ireland boss Michael O’Neill has backed Ross County striker Ronan Hale to make an impact on the international stage as he looks to solve his team’s ongoing struggles in front of goal.
Hale, who has netted 12 times for the Staggies in his debut Scottish Premiership campaign, has been included in Northern Ireland’s squad for the first time after FIFA clearance.
The 26-year-old had previously represented the Republic of Ireland at youth level but has now committed his future to O’Neill’s side.
He is expected to make his international debut in Friday’s friendly clash against Switzerland at Windsor Park, alongside Tottenham Hotspur’s Jamie Donley, who has also switched allegiance after recently playing for England’s youth teams.
With centre-half Paddy McNair still the squad’s top scorer with just seven goals, O’Neill is eager to bolster his attacking options – and he believes Hale has the qualities to make a difference.
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“We’re always looking for good players, and at the end of the day, people who can stick the ball in the net will always come to our attention,” O’Neill said.
“I kept a close eye on Ronan when he moved across from Cliftonville to Ross County. He had a good start and he’s been a little bit in and out since December, but overall, for a first season, with the transition of coming across from a domestic league, he’s done very, very well.”
Hale’s ability to find the net in a struggling Ross County side has caught the eye, with his physical presence and sharp finishing making him a key figure in their survival fight.
His journey to international football has been far from conventional, with stints at Birmingham City and several Irish clubs before earning his shot in Scotland’s top flight.
O’Neill hopes Hale’s experience will help Northern Ireland in attack, adding: “When we look for players, particularly in the attacking area of the pitch, we will monitor those players whose numbers are good.
“I do think those players have the ability to do something a little bit different and have the X-factor.”
With Donley also impressing on loan at Leyton Orient, Northern Ireland fans will be hoping the duo can provide a much-needed spark – starting against Switzerland.
