Northern Ireland's Jonny Evans Issues Rallying Cry Ahead Of Wales Euro 2016 Tie

 

Jonny Evans has urged Northern Ireland's players to cement their legacy by beating Wales to continue their Euro 2016 journey. It was confirmed on Wednesday that Michael O'Neill's side will be heading back to Paris this weekend for a clash with fellow home nation Wales in the round of 16.

Both countries made history in qualifying for the tournament to end long exiles from major tournaments and one of the two countries is now guaranteed a place in the quarter-finals. The chance to achieve such a historic landmark is one that Evans has revealed is a driving force heading into the clash at the Parc des Princes on Saturday.

He said “We're in such a position here to create history that can last a long time and we don't want to let go of that. We want to go as far as we can and not waste this opportunity.”

O'Neill's squad returned to training on Thursday after being given the previous day off following a gruelling encounter with world champions Germany. Their manager revealed they were drained following that 1-0 loss, though Evans is confident the sizeable Northern Irish following in France can pick them up again.

He added “We appreciate everything that they've done for us since they've been here, we're still getting videos and snapchats, all the lads are seeing it all over the internet. They're still singing their hearts out and they've been here two weeks, some of them. You almost think, how are they still doing this? Sometimes, when you're in a big game like that (Germany game), you're thinking the atmosphere won't be as good as the first two games and then you see all the videos coming through and you hear them get to the stadium and that definitely gives you a lift. It helps you put it in when your legs are tired, you want to do it for them. That can definitely push you, you can see the reception we got.”