Jamal Lewis

When Chris Brunt retired from international football in 2018, Michael O’Neill had a ready-made replacement in the shape of Norwich City left-back Jamal Lewis.

When the then 20-year-old made his debut in the 2-1 friendly victory over South Korea at the National Stadium in March 2018, it seemed like he had been playing international football for years.

In fact Lewis’ international experience consisted of just three caps at under-19 level and one appearance at under-21 level before being handed his full debut against the Koreans.

Lewis, who was a talented athlete competing at national level over both 800 and 1500m in his youth, started off his career with his hometown club Luton Town before linking up with Norwich City in 2014.

After working his way through the ranks at Carrow Road, Lewis, whose mother comes from Belfast, made his full debut for the Canaries when he came on as a substitute against Brentford in December 2017.

He really came to the attention of the wider Northern Ireland public though when he scored a 93^rd minute equaliser for Norfolk outfit in their FA Cup tie with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in what was just his sixth appearance for the club.

In 2018/19 Lewis cemented his place in the Norwich side at left-back as they stormed to the Championship title and promotion to the Premier League.

His performances also earned him a place the 2018/19 Championship Team of the Season as well as a new long-term contract which ties him to Carrow Road until June 2023.

With Norwich relegated from the Premier League, Lewis signed a five-year deal with Newcastle United in September 2020. 

Prior to the start of the 2023/24 campaign Lewis joined Championship outfit Watford on a season-long loan.