Northern Ireland midfielder Megan Bell expressed delight over the call-up of Linfield teammate Cora Chambers for the upcoming 2027 World Cup qualifiers against Malta. Chambers, who netted 20 league goals last season, receives her first senior opportunity under new manager Michael McArdle. Bell firmly believes the striker has earned this chance based on consistent performance.

McArdle takes the reins for the first time in Lurgan, leading the side in the home fixture on April 14 and the away match four days later. Northern Ireland seeks six points from these fixtures after dropping results against both Turkey and Switzerland in their opening matches. Malta also suffered defeats in their initial two qualification outings.

Bell suggests the squad feels a renewed sense of purpose with the managerial change, moving past recent difficult results. The team views these back-to-back fixtures as an immediate chance to reset their campaign under the new boss. The inclusion of a proven goalscorer like Chambers offers immediate offensive impetus for the squad's aspirations.

Northern Ireland hopes to secure maximum points against Malta to stabilize their standing early in the qualification cycle. The integration of fresh talent like Chambers provides depth as they aim to improve upon their challenging start to the campaign.