Nottingham Jungle defender Nat Johnson is named in the first team since qualifying for Euro 2022, which sees Birmingham Town’s Ellie Mason, London Town Lionesses’ Connie Scofield and Rangers midfielder Megan Bell return. of the shock.
There may be a metamorphosis in Oxtoby’s goalkeeping decisions as Lauren Perry is ruled out with an ACL injury and replaced by Liverpool Feds goalkeeper Rachael Norney.
Winger Caragh Hamilton and midfielder Nadene Caldwell can also skip the two surprise attacks, as can Hearts forwards Kerry Beattie.
It was hoped that Northern Ireland’s record goalscorer, Rachel Furness, could be fit to return for the first month in 365 days, although she may be injured.
The 36-year-old, who has scored 38 goals in 95 international appearances, has been a regular for Newcastle United since they moved up to the Championship in the summer.
The first leg will take place at the pitch on Friday 25 October (18:00 BST) before the return leg at Windsor Landscape on Tuesday 29 October (19:00).
If Northern Ireland beat Croatia in the two-legged tie, they will face either Norway or Albania for a place in next year’s tournament in Switzerland.
Northern Ireland qualified for the play-off by finishing second in Team B3, with three wins from six matches.
Croatia came third in Team B4, behind Wales and Ukraine, and if Northern Ireland exit, they will face either Norway or Albania for a playing field in the Euro 2025 final.