Uncapped Chambers 'deserves her chance' - Bell

Northern Ireland midfielder Megan Bell said that she is "really delighted" that uncapped Linfield striker Cora Chambers has been included in the squad for the 2027 World Cup qualifiers against Malta. NI welcome Malta to Mourneview Park on Tuesday, 14 April before the away fixture four days later. New boss Michael McArdle will take charge of the side for the first time in Lurgan and has included Linfield's Chambers, who netted 20 league goals last season, in his squad.

"Cora coming in, she deserves her chance," Bell told BBC Sport NI about her Linfield teammate. "She has been a proven goalscorer the last number of years and she has worked really hard. "I am really delighted for her and if she gets her opportunity, I am sure she will grab it with both hands.

Sometimes she scores goals and I am like how has she done that? " Northern Ireland were beaten by Turkey and Switzerland in their opening two qualifiers with Malta also losing against both teams in their first two games. Since those matches, McArdle has been announced as the new permanent NI boss following Kris Lindsay's spell as interim manager.

The 46-year-old has previously managed Scotland on an interim basis during their first four Nations League A games last year. "It is a fresh slate, everyone is starting off. A new manager, new ideas and I think everyone is optimistic about the future," Bell continued.