Ian Baraclough calls Mark Sykes’ switch to Republic a ‘massive disappointment’

Baraclough has named a 26-man Northern Ireland squad for his first games in charge against Romania and Norway

Baraclough, who replaced Michael O’Neill in the role in June, has named his first senior squad for next month’s Nations League games against Romania and Norway.

Northern Ireland boss Ian Baraclough has admitted Oxford midfielder Mark Sykes’ decision not to play for the country was “a massive disappointment”.

Baraclough, who replaced Michael O’Neill in the role in June, has named his first senior squad for next month’s Nations League games against Romania and Norway.