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Gareth Fullerton

Northern Ireland vs Kosovo: Dion Charles insists he is ready to make his mark on international stage

Dion Charles insists he is ready to make his mark for Northern Ireland after patiently biding his time.

The striker has yet to start for Ian Baraclough's side and is still waiting for his first goal in 11 appearances from the bench.

But after enjoying an impressive start to the season with Bolton, Charles is confident he can translate that form to the international stage.

Read more: Graeme Souness labels Celtic "the unacceptable face of Scottish football"

And with remaining Nations League games against Kosovo and Greece in the coming days, he is determined to finally break his duck.

"My aim since coming into this squad is to play. International football is different to club football so I had to bide my time, but hopefully I get my chance soon," said Charles, who made his Northern Ireland debut against the USA in March last year.

Northern Ireland's Dion Charles (William Cherry/Presseye)

"I want to get a start in the team and I have confidence in my own ability, and the squad's ability, that when I am on the pitch I will get chances and score.

"I just have to keep my head down and work hard in the sessions we have got and give the manager something to think about.

“It is frustrating for me because I want to be playing. Everywhere I’ve been, I’ve pretty much played every game.

“Coming into the international set-up it’s a different environment I’ve had to get used to. I’ve had to find my feet and I’m just looking forward to trying to get that starting spot.

"I’ve been close to scoring a few times when I’ve come on. I just want to keep my head down, keep working hard and get the chance to score some goals.

“I’m confident in my own ability. I’ve worked very hard to get to where I am now and I will continue to do that.

“If I get my opportunity, I’m sure I will repay the manager.”

Charles has scored four goals in eight appearances for Bolton this season.

The 26-year-old says he is feeling "sharp and fit" as he enters the international window with Northern Ireland, who are still searching for their first win in the Nations League.

First up it's Kosovo on Saturday at Windsor Park, followed by a trip to Greece three days later.

"The season has gone well. I played the first game then picked up an injury and I was out for a couple of weeks," Charles said.

“I came back a couple of weeks ago and I’ve scored four since then, so the goals are coming.

“I’m feeling sharp and fit and looking forward to the rest of the season.

“After my move to Bolton, where you play in front of big crowds, it’s only going to benefit me when I come away on international duty and play in front of big crowds, so it’s been good for me.

"I love playing in front of big crowds and atmospheres. It is an entertainment sport and I like to get the fans off their seats and give them something to cheer about.

"So for me it is brilliant."

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