SAINTS midfielder Shea Charles is set to captain Northern Ireland for the first time when they face Belarus on Friday evening.

Charles' reputation-boosting campaign on loan at Sheffield Wednesday in the Championship has been recognised by NI boss Michael O’Neil.

The 21 year old will become his country's youngest-ever captain, beating the record set by Conor Bradley earlier this year.

Charles, who joined Saints from Manchester City last summer, has 21 Northern Ireland caps to his name having debuted in 2022.

O’Neil's side currently sit top of League C Group Three on seven points, one more than opponents Belarus.

Charles has racked up over 1,000 minutes at Wednesday this season and has drawn praise from teammates and Owls boss Danny Rohl.

Scottish midfielder Barry Bannan insisted the youngster has made his job "easier" - something that did not surprise Saints boss Russell Martin.

Northern Ireland also face a trip to Luxembourg on Monday, November 18.