Arsenal hit with new injury blow as international manager confirms squad withdrawal

O’Neill has made four senior appearances for his country, though all of those have come off the bench.

The 18-year-old was pushing to make his first start after being called up for the upcoming Nations League fixtures against Ukraine and Hungary.

However, O’Neill missed Arsenal Under-21's 5-2 win over Aston Villa on Sunday due to injury and that same issue has now prevented him from joining up with Northern Ireland.

“We’re naturally disappointed to be without Ceadach for the final two games of the campaign,” Northern Ireland manager Michael O’Neill said.

“He has been a great asset to the squad in the last international window and everyone here wishes him a swift recovery.”

Ceadach O’Neill

Arsenal FC via Getty Images

That is a blow for the winger after a positive few weeks for his development.

O’Neill has impressed Mikel Arteta when training with the Arsenal first team and he made his senior debut in the Carabao Cup.

He was one of the very few to perform well for Arsenal in the shock defeat to Fleetwood, with O’Neill’s cross leading to Viktor Gyokeres’ equaliser.

The teenager was then included in the travelling Arsenal squad to face Liverpool at Anfield and he was the extra man on matchday.

In O’Neill’s absence, Northern Ireland will attempt to secure promotion in the Nations League.

They currently sit top of Group B2, a point ahead of Hungary and four points clear of Ukraine ahead of the final two matches.

Top spot in the group would earn promotion to League A, while second goes into the promotion play-offs.Kay doKay