Smyth blasted onto the international scene back in 2018 but has earned only three caps since then
Michael O'Neill admits a number of factors contributed to Paul Smyth being recalled to the Northern Ireland squad.Smyth blasted onto the Northern Ireland scene in March 2018, scoring the winner in a 2-1 victory over South Korea at Windsor Park.Despite that heroic introduction, the former Linfield winger has made just two appearances since, his last coming in a friendly defeat to Ukraine in June, 2021.
"Maybe the jump to QPR at that point was too big, and eventually dropping down to Leyton Orient has proved a really good decision. "He played wing-back on Saturday, for example. I think his best positions are probably more advanced than that. But Paul gives you that adaptability."Paul is an infectious character and player to have around the squad, and it is down to him now. He is playing at a level that merits his inclusion."
That form saw him return to QPR in the summer, and O'Neill believes the former Linfield youngster is better equipped to deal with higher level football.
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