Northern Ireland keeper Michael McGovern praised by Germany stars

ESPN FC's Shaka Hislop and Tommy Smyth discuss how having four, third-place teams advance to the knockout round is impacting Euro 2016. 

Northern Ireland goalkeeper Michael McGovern swapped shirts with Germany counterpart Manuel Neuer after his stunning goalkeeping display in the sides' meeting on Tuesday.

McGovern made a string of fine saves to restrict Germany to a 1-0 win in a game they dominated.

That result, coupled with Turkey's win over Czech Republic, ensured that Michael O'Neill's side qualified for the knockout stage in France.

McGovern, 31, becomes a free agent next week when his deal with Scottish club Hamilton expires.

"We'll see what happens," the keeper said after his outstanding performance in Paris.

"Playing at this level is something I relish. I love it at Hamilton, but I want to play at as high a level as I can and hopefully my agent will be speaking to a few clubs."

The keeper made world class saves from Mario Gotze and Mario Gomez, with the latter the only player to beat him.

"I don't know what kind of day he had, but he fished everything out," Gomez said.

Germany boss Joachim Low added to the praise, saying: "He has kept goal brilliantly and shown great reflexes.

"Three or four times he was completely alone in his goal -- he put in a great effort."

Northern Ireland counterpart O'Neill said: "The players gave him a round of applause when he came in the dressing room and, when that happens, you don't really need the manager to say any more.

"How he has progressed in the last 18 months is phenomenal. He's worth at least 15 points a season to his club, no doubt."

CREDIT TO:http://www.espnfc.co.uk/european-championship/story/2899686/northern-ireland-keeper-michael-mcgovern-praised-by-germany-stars