Rory McIlroy issues message of support to Northern Ireland

Rory McIlroy has delivered an inspiring message of support to the Northern Ireland football team ahead of its Euro 2016 kick-off on Sunday.

Michael O'Neill's side is the country's first representative in a major international tournament for 30 years, and golf star McIlroy will be one of its biggest fans for the opener against Poland and beyond.

"Coming home as a major champion was one of the proudest moments of my career so far," McIlroy said in the speech. "It's an honour to represent Northern Ireland around the world - and to put our wee country on the sporting map.

"Tomorrow you will write the next chapter in our long and famous sporting story.

"When you walk out at that stadium in Nice, take a moment to think about our sporting icons, what they achieved, and how this is your chance to take your place alongside them."

Northern Ireland is pitted in Group C alongside Poland, Germany and Ukraine.