Northern Ireland Under-21s manager Steve Beaglehole believes his team can revive their European Championship hopes when key players return.

Beaglehole was forced to field virtually a reserve side in the qualifier against Iceland, and the result was a 6-2 thrashing on Tuesday night.

The Leicester coach was appalled at the way his team caved in but is convinced they can turn the tables in the return match.

That game is scheduled for October 13 - and the likes of Billy Kee, Craig Cathcart, Oliver Norwood, Corry Evans, James Lawrie, Shane Ferguson and Carl Magnay could all come in contention.

They sat out Tuesday night's match at Coleraine Showgrounds for various reasons - Kee was promoted to the senior squad.

Beaglehole said: "We are a bigger side with those players in it, and that is important. We are also more athletic.

"Iceland had three players who dropped down from the senior team, and that made them a better side.

"I think the same would be true of us, and we could be a different proposition the next time we meet.

"I am not used to losing, and it was a body blow. But that's football, and you have to move on."

Beaglehole, who is also the under-19s manager, is pleased with the quality of talent at his disposal in that age group and at under-17s level.

He added: "There are a number of good players coming through and being fast-tracked. We are looking long term, not short term.

"Sometimes you get freak results like last night when you are dealing with young players. But there are some positive signs for the future."