Michael Smith and Conor Washington called up by Northern Ireland boss Michael O'Neill for Wales and Slovenia friendlies

Uncapped pair Michael Smith and Conor Washington have been called up to the Northern Ireland squad for the forthcoming friendlies against Wales and Slovenia.
Michael Smith has been called up to the Northern Ireland squadMichael Smith has been called up to the Northern Ireland squad
Michael Smith has been called up to the Northern Ireland squad

Peterborough United defender Smith and Queen’s Park Rangers striker Washington have both been named in Michael O’Neill’s 24-man squad.

Derby County defender Chris Baird – currently on loan at Fulham – is ruled out by injury.

Northern Ireland play Wales at the Cardiff City Stadium on Thursday, March 24 and host Slovenia in Belfast four days later.

Former Ballymena United player Smith spent three years with Bristol Rovers before signing for Peterborough in 2014.

Washington – who qualifies to play for Northern Ireland through the grandparent rule – signed for QPR in January after scoring 27 goals in 82 appearances for Peterborough.

Northern Ireland squad:

Goalkeepers: Roy Carroll, Michael McGovern, Alan Mannus

Defenders: Aaron Hughes, Gareth McAuley, Jonny Evans, Craig Cathcart, Lee Hodson, Conor McLaughlin, Daniel Lafferty, Luke McCullough, Paddy McNair, Michael Smith

Midfielders: Steven Davis, Niall McGinn, Oliver Norwood, Shane Ferguson, Stuart Dallas

Forwards: Kyle Lafferty, Jamie Ward, Josh Magennis, Billy McKay, Liam Boyce, Conor Washington