Terry Devlin: Northern Irish media reacts to full international debut
Portsmouth star Terry Devlin is becoming a household name this season, especially now that his form has been rewarded with his first start at international level.
The versatile 21-year-old has proven his ability both at right back and in midfield, earning an international call-up with Northern Ireland and being handed his first senior caps.
Devlin impressed for Northern Ireland off the bench during their 1-1 draw against Switzerland on Friday (21 March), and Michael O’Neill rewarded that performance by starting him against Sweden on Tuesday (25 March).
Unfortunately for Northern Ireland, it proved to be a tough outing as Sweden thrashed them 5-1 after goals from Emil Holm, Benjamin Nygren, Ken Sema, Alexander Isak, and Anthony Elanga.
West Brom forward Isaac Price provided Northern Ireland with a consolation goal in the 89th minute, which gave the travelling supporters something to cheer about.
Terry Devlin faced Ken Sema tussle
Devlin was thrown in at the deep end against Sweden with Jon Dahl Tomasson’s team proving to be too strong for Northern Ireland on the night.
Belfast Live gave the Portsmouth star a 7/10 rating and felt he “worked hard up against the tricky test from Ken Sema,” who scored one of Sweden’s goals on the night.
| Match Stats | Terry Devlin |
| Minutes Played | 68 |
| Accurate Passes | 25/30 (80%) |
| Touches | 44 |
| Clearances | 5 |
However, the Belfast Telegraph were slightly more critical, pointing out that Devlin “gave away [a] free kick that led to [the] third” goal as they gave him a 5/10 rating.
They felt that Devlin was “tested by some pace on the flank,” which was what allowed it to become a major learning experience for the youngster.
Portsmouth will benefit from Terry Devlin’s international adventure
The game against Sweden might have proven to be a steep learning curve for Devlin, but it was a game that will undoubtedly benefit him as a player.
Devlin is showing significant signs of growth this season, having made 26 appearances in the Championship this season for Portsmouth.
Now that he has had some international experience, he should return to Fratton Park as an even stronger player following different coaching and the opportunity to play at such a high standard.