Overview

• Germany arrive after a 4-0 win over Luxembourg, with Julian Nagelsmann defending Florian Wirtz and Nick Woltemade and indicating he will keep the winning lineup for Belfast.
• Nagelsmann confirmed Oliver Baumann will start in goal, as uncertainty around Marc-André ter Stegen’s recovery continues and Joachim Löw publicly floated a potential Manuel Neuer return if form warrants it.
• Northern Ireland took exception to Nagelsmann’s description of their long-ball approach, and he clarified he meant it is difficult to defend rather than a slight on their football.
• Squad updates include fourth-choice goalkeeper Noah Atubolu being assessed for a bandaged knee and Jamie Leweling leaving the camp due to adductor problems.
• The group is finely balanced with Germany, Northern Ireland and Slovakia on six points, while Michael O’Neill’s side are unbeaten in seven home games and will be without suspended captain Conor Bradley.