The Linfield manager has had little opportunity to have a rest since completing a third successive league and cup double with the Blues as he prepares some of the best young talent in the domestic game for a clash with their counterparts from the eircom League.

After losing their opening game in Belgium after a couple of controversial refereeing decisions, the Northern Ireland boys are looking for their first points in the group, which also includes Slovakia, and there would be no better time than at Mourneview Park tomorrow night.

"It is hard for players to come in and gel quickly, but when we went to Belguim, although it wasn't the most glamourous of trips, the players were professional in their approach and put everything into training and the match," said Jeffrey.

"We trained last week and I was very pleased with the attitude shown by the players. It was superb.

"It would have been easy for some to switch off now that their season is over with their clubs and there was always a worry that there may be tired minds and tired limbs, but we had very, very good sessions.

"The key and core principals are that we are representing Northern Ireland and also the Irish League and that is the common bond that brings everyone together.

"Nowadays it is more and more difficult for players from here to make the breakthrough at the highest level in England or Scotland, so we have to focus on developing our own game and this is one way of doing that.

Barry Holland and Mark McAllister missed the first night of training last week, but both are expected to be fit for tomorrow night's game.