Dion Charles bagged a brace as Northern Ireland kicked off their European Championship qualifying campaign with a 2-0 victory against San Marino.

Charles’ first goal was a clinical finish midway through the first half, finding the top corner after getting on the end of Conor Washington’s cross.

His second was a header 10 minutes after the break, getting himself in the right place to meet Jamal Lewis’ delivery. The goalkeeper got a hand to it but couldn’t keep it out.

The 27-year-old has built on his impressive club form, having scored 18 times in all competitions for the Whites this season.

Bolton team-mate Conor Bradley was also named in the starting line-up and had some bright moments attacking down the right, with both players lasting the full 90 minutes.

Eoin Toal was an unused substitute after earning a first call-up to the senior team as a result of his consistent performances in League One. The centre-back had a tough start to life at the UniBol due to injury but has become an important member of Ian Evatt’s squad in recent months.

It was Michael O’Neill’s first game back in the hot seat, having returned to the role following Ian Baraclough’s sacking. The 53-year-old’s first spell in charge lasted nine years in total.

Speaking ahead of the fixture, Charles said: “I had a nice chat with him a couple of weeks back after he had got the job.

“He told me about how he wants to work, where he sees me playing and how he can help me. I’m just excited to work with him.

“It’s massive for me to get international recognition. Hopefully, I can kick on and do something special with Northern Ireland and get to a major tournament.”

O’Neill’s side are back in action on Sunday night when they welcome Finland to Windsor Park (7.45pm). The Finns suffered a 3-1 defeat against Denmark despite drawing level through Oliver Antman.

Denmark, Kazakhstan and Slovenia have also been drawn in Group H as nations compete to book their place in next summer’s tournament in Germany.

You can follow the Bolton News on social media by joining us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

Gain unlimited access to the Bolton News website with a premium digital subscription