Henderson says two ‘cup finals’ waiting

For the first time during the 24 years of the U21 Uefa championship, Ireland approach the tail-end of their qualifying campaign in contention.

It’s prompted midfielder Conor Henderson to liken this evening’s tie in Hungary to a cup final. Only victory in Kecskemét will maintain Ireland’s ambitions heading into Monday’s final qualifier in Italy, so it’s good news for his country that Henderson’s own experience as a rising star at Arsenal has taught him to deal with such high-pressure situations.

A full six points from the pair of games would secure Noel King’s side a play-off shot at reaching next year’s European Championships in Israel.