Northern Ireland on the brink of European Championship history

After a 30-year wait to reach a major championships, Northern Ireland are just 90 minutes away from securing a place at Euro 2016.

Michael O'Neill's side can qualify for next summer's tournament with a win over third-placed Hungary at Windsor Park on Monday night.

It would be the first time in their history that Northern Ireland have reached the European Championships.

Northern Ireland have surprised many in Group F, as they find themselves at the summit, above the likes of Romania and Greece.

Norman Whiteside was in the side back in 1986. Credit: PA

The last time the nation competed in a major tournament was at Mexico 1986 - with a squad including Pat Jennings and Norman Whiteside - when they were eliminated in the group stage after losses to Spain and Brazil, with their only point coming in a draw against Algeria.

Norwich City striker Kyle Lafferty has scored six goals in qualifying, but can't get near his club side's matchday squad and spent much of last season on loan in Turkey, but that has not stopped him performing at international level.

Jonny Evans has just moved to West Brom. Credit: PA

It's a trend within the team, as other key men such as Jonny Evans are unable to find their way into their domestic sides, forcing the central defender to leave Manchester United for West Brom.

In addition to this, many of the players play their club football in the Championship, meaning the international stage can be a big step up.

Oliver Norwood is at Huddersfield, Chris Baird now plays for Derby and wideman Stuart Dallas has recently signed for Leeds.

But all the players have thrived on the goal of qualifying for the tournament in France next summer.

Michael O'Neill is the man in charge. Credit: PA

Manager Michael O'Neill's experience before leading the country he represented 31 times as a player, was as Shamrock Rovers manager in the League of Ireland, but his appointment was an inspired one.

Despite only winning six of the 29 matches in charge, Northern Ireland could make history on Monday night.

The boss has been full of praise for his players and the supporters during the qualifying campaign, saying: "The supporters have been fantastic, even when things weren't going well.

Kyle Lafferty has lead the line for Northern Ireland. Credit: PA

"I got a lot of support in the early days when things were difficult and that was huge for me.

"You have to continue believing you are doing the right thing, and that isn't easy when results are going against you.

"I just hope the supporters stick with the team - simple as that. Believe in us, and I think they do.

"The players want to deliver for them. We know the sense of anticipation because of the amount of people coming up to talk to us about France.

"I think it will be a fantastic tournament to be at, and I think it would be fitting for our fans to be there."

Having already beaten Hungary 2-1 in the opening fixture of qualification, Northern Ireland know they have nothing to fear at Windsor Par, meaning it could be a good night in Belfast.