Worthington hails Windsor effect

Published Wednesday, 09 September 2009
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Northern Ireland manager Nigel Worthington believes being loud and proud is spurring his side towards a World Cup berth in South Africa.

Victory against Group Three leaders Slovakia in Wednesday's qualifier at Windsor Park will see Northern Ireland move into pole position in the standings.

Capacity at Linfield's Belfast home is restricted because of safety issues but Worthington insists they will this to their advantage.

He said: "You go to some clubs in England and there might be 60,000 in and you hear some people say there is not enough noise. We have the opposite effect.

"We have 13,500 in and it is worth 80,000. They are worth their weight in gold to us as always. They are our 12th man. We always have on-days at Windsor.

"For the away side it can be very intimidating and hostile. That's what we are looking for."

Northern Ireland have won five competitive games at home and drawn the other since Worthington took charge.

It is a formidable record and one the former Norwich boss is keen to extend before Northern Ireland travel to the Czech Republic for their final qualifier next month.

Worthington added: "Obviously I would like to keep the run going. We had a disappointing result in Slovakia, so we owe them one.

"They have done very well and I have every respect for them. However we are focused on ourselves and how we go about our job.

"Our players are fit, ready and in good shape. We are looking forward to the challenge, we are in a wonderful position with everything to play for."

Chris Brunt and Chris Baird are both available again after injury and suspension kept them sidelined for the draw against Poland at the weekend.

© Press Association
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