Fulham’s Chris Baird will win his 50th international cap on Friday night and will mark the occasion by leading Northern Ireland out as captain.
Having made his international debut against Italy in 2003, the 29-year-old has become a mainstay for his country and, just like he has done with the Whites, has impressed in both defence and midfield.
In an exclusive in-depth interview, prior the current to the international break, Baird spoke exclusively to the Club’s official magazine Fultime, and shed light on what has been a testing four seasons at Fulham and his pride in representing his country.
“It means everything to me to be playing for my country,” he revealed. “It was an honour and a privilege to be called up for the first time all those years ago and it’s still the same for me now.
“To be part of trying to qualify for big competitions and lining up against the best players in the world has been a wonderful experience, especially being part of famous victories over England and Spain.
“It goes without saying that I would love to be part of a side that does reach a major finals because it’s been a long time since that happened. In fact, it will be some 30 years next year.
“We’ve started the 2012 European Championship relatively well, and I like to think that we have a chance. We’re unbeaten in the three games that we have played but the next two against Serbia and Slovenia respectively are big, big games for us.
“Group C is tough, especially when you throw Italy into the mix as well, but we have to be confident. As a nation we have never actually qualified for a European Championship, but hopefully we can put that right – it’s definitely about time.
“People like to talk about the luck of the Irish, but we’ve had none of it!”
At present, Baird is certainly enjoying his football after experiencing a mixed first two seasons at Craven Cottage. Having been in and out of the squad, he has established himself as a player of significance and played out what was arguably his finest season as a professional last term.
“I went through a difficult period, I can’t deny that,” admitted Chris. “I wasn’t playing and that was hard because that’s what it’s all about isn’t it? There was a time when I could go weeks, sometimes months without playing for the First Team – it was a lonely time.
“But there were and are others going through similar experiences – it is just part of football. For me, it’s all about how a player reacts though. You can do one of two things: you can let your head drop and sulk, or just get on with it. I chose the latter. I worked hard, gave my all whenever the opportunity arose, and thankfully I’ve taken it.
“At times it has been tough, but the past year-and-a-half hasn’t worked out too badly for me. Last year was probably my best in football, but I reckon quite a few here would say that. It was a good season for everyone associated with the Club wasn’t it?”
To read more of Chris’ honest and insightful story, as well as in-depth interviews with Manager Mark Hughes and Fulham favourite Simon Davies, as well as a variety of content including the Top 10 Fulham Premier League goals as voted for by you, be sure to pick up your copy of Issue 34 of Fultime magazine, available online and in the Club shops next week.