Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann has offered an apology for previously describing Northern Ireland’s style of play as “not brilliant to watch,” insisting the comments were intended “with a lot of respect.”
Ahead of tonight’s World Cup qualifier against Michael O’Neill’s side at Windsor Park (19:45 BST), the coach clarified his remarks, which followed Germany’s 3-1 win last month and were deemed “disrespectful” by some.
“If anybody felt it was disrespectful, I will say sorry,” Nagelsmann stated, adding that he meant to highlight how well they execute their “special way” of playing, including their effective use of long balls and set-pieces.
The Group A rivals are level on six points from three qualifiers, making tonight’s clash crucial.
Nagelsmann anticipates a difficult game against a Northern Ireland side unbeaten in seven games at home.
