McIlroy stays upbeat

Northern Ireland manager Sammy McIlroy is feeling young at heart despite a dismal run of form.

He maintains that the future is bright because of the kids that are coming through.

McIlroy takes his side into a Euro 2004 qualifier against Spain tomorrow at Windsor Park without a win in 10 matches and without a goal in 882 minutes.

They are the kind of statistics which would make most managers wince but the former Macclesfield boss remains upbeat.

“We have a lot of young talent coming through and we are going to concentrate on them,” he said.

“It has been tough the last 10 games but the team is on a learning curve. We always knew this would be a hard group and that’s how it has turned out. I would love a goal against Spain because I believe that could be the turning point.”

Spain suffered their first defeat in the group on Saturday when they lost at home to Greece.

McIlroy said: “I thought Spain were the better side but Greece defended well.

“Spain are now under pressure for the first time and they could react in one or two ways. The result could fire them up on Wednesday or else they could be anxious.

“However, we know it will be difficult for us as they have so many quality players. We cannot afford to go out with all guns blazing as we will be punished. We have got to make it hard for them and watch their counter-attacks.”

Glentoran striker Andy Smith could start tomorrow after a promising debut in the 2-0 defeat by Italy in a friendly last week.

McIlroy, however, will continue to monitor the fitness of Wigan defender Peter Kennedy, who missed training yesterday because of a groin injury.