Justin Devenny collected his third trophy in 12 months with Crystal Palace after the club lifted the UEFA Conference League, capping Oliver Glasner's tenure on a high. The 22-year-old Northern Ireland international previously helped Palace win the FA Cup and scored the winning penalty in the Community Shield against Liverpool in August.

Rather than heading on holiday, Devenny joined up with Northern Ireland for friendlies against Guinea and World Cup-bound France. He welcomed the chance to rack up minutes after finding playing time limited during the second half of the season at Selhurst Park. France represent the calibre of opponent Northern Ireland have routinely faced, with Italy, Germany, and Spain also on their recent schedule.

Michael O'Neill's contract extension through 2032 provides stability Devenny values, especially with Palace entering a transition period. Pierre Safe, currently managing Lens, is the leading candidate to replace Glasner. Devenny acknowledged the fresh start gives everyone a clean slate, and he intends to force his way into regular selection.

Northern Ireland's World Cup playoff defeat to Italy still stings, but Devenny views that disappointment as fuel. A young squad gaining experience against elite opposition forms the foundation for future qualifying campaigns under O'Neill's long-term guidance.