Grant McCann To Be Named On Bench For Northern Ireland Game

N. Ireland's expectations of having Aaron Hughes back for Wednesday's qualifier against Iceland were dashed.

Aaron Hughes been ruled out of N. Ireland's Euro 2008 Group F qualifier against Iceland in Reykjavik Wednesday, as well as missing today's clash against Latvia.

The N. Ireland captain has failed to overcome a persistent ankle injury.

Although he was left out of the team to face Latvia, it was hoped that he would join the rest of the players for Wednesday's game in Reykjavik.

But he will now stay with his club, Fulham, in a bid to regain fitness.

"Everyone agreed this was for the best," mentioned Nigel Worthington, who had taken over from Fulham manager Lawrie Sanchez as N. Ireland team manager.

"Aaron will get several games under his belt for Fulham and then be ready for our next game away to Sweden next month," explained Worthington, who has a selection dilemma in defence ahead of the game against the Latvians in Riga.

Michael Duff, George McCartney, Stephen Craigan and Chris Baird formed the back line the Province's win over Liechtenstein last month, however now Jonny Evans is available again following injury.

Man Utd defender Evans maybe in contention for a starting place at left back or centre-back, in which case Duff maybe the unlucky one to must drop out.

Evans missed the 3-1 triumph over Liechtenstein at Windsor Park in August with a groin injury.

McCartney has overcome a thigh problem and is available for selection, however
midfielder Damien Johnson remains sidelined, so Sammy Clingan and Steve Davis would again be the central midfield pairing, with Keith Gillespie on the right wing.

Stuart Elliott or Chris Brunt will be on the left, with David Healy and Kyle Lafferty expects to continue as the strike partnership.

Worthington drafted full back Tony Kane into his team at the weekend.

The 22 year old Blackburn Rovers player decided to switch allegiance from the Republic of Ireland to the country of his birth, having played in 2 U21 friendlies for the Republic.

 

Grant Mcann- Guilty or not guilty?

 

^ lol nt