There is no doubt about the big tie for the Fermanagh Juniors at next week’s Super Cup NI, a clash with English giants Manchester United at Ballymena Showgrounds on Tuesday night.

The chance to play against a top team is a massive opportunity for the young Fermanagh players in front of what is sure to be a large crowd but manager Denzil McDaniel (pictured) stresses that they also have two other crucial games that they are also concentrating on in the opening stages of the tournament.

“Most people are focusing on the Manchester United game, which is certainly a mouthwatering tie.

“But we have a difficult game on the Monday against a very talented Club NI side, and Dundalk on the Wednesday will prove difficult too,” he said.

There is no shortage of quality in the Fermanagh camp including captain Micheal Glynn who played for NI U15s recently in Austria and is a Club NI player. Glynn is going into his second year playing for Fermanagh Juniors as is vice captain Eimhin Curran who made a big impact at the tournament last season.

The squad have been working hard over the last few months to get themselves prepared for the rigours of tournament football and McDaniel has been delighted with the application and effort put in by his players.

“The players have been working extremely hard over the past number of weeks and deserve great credit for their dedication.

“It’s not easy giving such commitment in view of a range of other activities, not least an important period of exams.

“Yet, not only have they been generally very good in their attendance at our sessions, they have shown a superb attitude in working hard and buying into what we have asked them to do in terms of playing style,” he added.

And the manager, who is in his second terms as Junior boss, acknowledges that Fermanagh face a big challenge but he feels the squad are now prepared for what lies ahead.

“They’re ready for the big event, and I hope that the usual fantastic Fermanagh support gets behind them in what will be a massive challenge.

“It’s probably the biggest challenge these young lads will have faced, and bearing in mind that they’re 14 or 15 years of age, I think they’re due great credit.

“In addition to working on tactics and fitness, we’ve also stressed the need for them to be mentally tough and think they will do their clubs, their families and their county proud. It won’t be for lack of trying,” he commented.

McDaniel states that he has a good blend to his squad in terms of defence and attack.

“The squad has great balance this year, and in the series of friendlies we’ve played we’ve seen some good aggressive and clever defending, as well as some great attacking flair from some very skilful lads.

“Let’s hope we can put things into action, but I can say the squad has prepared diligently and well so let’s see how it goes.”

And ultimately, he hopes that the players enjoy the experience of representing their county at the Super Cup NI.

“The objective of the coaches has been to prepare well and give the boys a great week’s experience, and they’re excited and looking forward to it,” he said.