| venue: windsor park, belfast date: Friday, April 5th kick off: 19:00 BST |
| coverage: Watch live on BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website. Live text commentary, reports and reactions on his website for BBC Sport |
Northern Ireland manager Tanya Oxtoby says her team is dealing with the virus ahead of Friday's Euro 2025 qualifying opener against Malta.
Despite his illness, Oxtoby hopes his team will not be affected by Friday's game, saying: “We are in a good position.”
Northern Ireland are aiming to win back-to-back European Championships after qualifying for Euro 2022.
“We are built to adapt and the theme of the camp was to pivot,” added Australian Oxtoby.
“There have been some changes in terms of training and other things, but I think I’m finally in a good place, so I think it’s been a success.”
Striker Kelly Beatty has been left out of Oxtoby's squad due to injury and will be replaced by Glentoran teammate Emily Wilson, while Athlone Town forward Casey Howe will be in action at Windsor Park on Thursday. He was absent from the public practice held.
Former England Under-21 international Connie Schofield qualified for Northern Ireland through a relative from County Down and will be eligible for selection after receiving internal clearance in time for the opening qualifying round.
“Malta will be a really tough test for us. They are really dangerous in possession and they have players who are really dangerous in terms of movement,” Oxtoby added.
“We are very aware of that and we need to switch on for the full 90 minutes.
“This is the first game of the campaign and we are at home so we want to perform really, really well.
“As I said, I'm really happy with the result considering the challenges we faced this week. It gives us a good basis to move forward.”
“It's going to be a tough game.”
Striker Simone McGill, who scored in February's play-off win against Montenegro, said Malta would be a formidable opponent at Windsor Park.
“This is a new season and every team is itching to get off to a good start,” said the Aston Villa forward.
“I have no doubt that Marta will give us a very tough game tomorrow night.
“Starting a campaign is very important. It really motivates you. We know all about it from our previous success.
“We know that what got us there last time doesn't mean we'll get there now, but we're all focused on going into the game against Malta. I won't.”
“If we can get off to a good start, we will be in a good position for the rest of the campaign.”
