Northern Ireland dreams come true

Irish Football Association president Jim Boyce tonight described Northern Ireland’s World Cup qualifying draw as “a dream come true”.

Northern Ireland have been paired against England and Wales in group six along with Azerbaijan, Austria and Poland.

The two games against the other home nations will generate much needed revenue - as well as public interest – for the association.

Boyce told the Press Association: “I have been waiting a long time to get a British Championship resurrected. Don’t forget we are the holders!

“I think this draw is the next best thing. I am just sorry we didn’t get Scotland.

“Quite honestly England and Wales might have to do a little bit of worrying. I certainly hope so.

“I am delighted for the supporters. They’ve had to put up with long journeys.

“We have a long journey to Azerbaijan but shorter trips to Austria and Poland.

“Getting England and Wales in our group is just a dream come true.”

Boyce insists Windsor Park will be fit to host the match, although there may well be security concerns surrounding the visit of England to Belfast.

UEFA were critical of the venue after Armenia complained following a Euro 2004 qualifier.

But Boyce said: “We are guaranteed a couple of sell-outs at Windsor Park with England and Wales. That is tremendous for Northern Ireland and tremendous for public.”

The IFA intend to name their new manager next month after Sammy McIlroy left to join Stockport at the end of the failed Euro 2004 qualifying campaign.

Boyce said: “There will be no appointment, certainly until the middle of January, because we are trying to sort out our two games for February and March.”