Championship boss feels 'it doesn't make sense' for Northern Ireland star to play summer friendlies

Galbraith has established himself as a key member of Michael O’Neill’s international squad and started in both of March’s fixtures – a World Cup play-off semi-final defeat against Italy in Bergamo and a friendly draw with Wales.

The 24-year-old hasn’t played since his involvement with Northern Ireland after picking up a calf injury which is set to rule him out for up to eight weeks.

Across all competitions this season, Galbraith has made 51 appearances for club and country – a number which could further extend throughout this summer with Northern Ireland facing two friendlies in June.

O’Neill’s men are set for a glamour trip to France, who have reached the past two World Cup finals, including winning the competition in 2018, taking on a star-studded squad in Lille on June 8.

The Irish FA have confirmed Northern Ireland will contest another away fixture prior to facing France, but the opponent and venue has yet to be revealed.

Galbraith brought his international cap tally to 14 during the most recent window and started in five of Northern Ireland’s six World Cup qualifying group games last year.

While Swans chief Matos believes Galbraith would benefit from a full summer break after missing the club’s final seven league matches of the season, he’s willing to leave the final decision up to medical professionals.

"I think it doesn't make sense for (Galbraith to play in) the international break, but I leave that for the medical team and the medical team of the national team as well," he said. "They need to decide between them what is the best, between both, so that's why you have doctors.

"I think it's the best regarding the situation of the injury, but then it's something that they need to speak about and everyone decides what's the best in that case."