Northern Ireland hit by injuries

Northern Ireland pair Chris Baird (knee) and Phil Mulryne (groin) have dropped out of the squad to face Poland in the World Cup qualifier on Saturday because of injury.

The absence of the two men gives manager Lawrie Sanchez 21 players to choose from ahead of the match at Windsor Park.

The squad assembled in Belfast today but Sunderland duo George McCartney and Jeff Whitley and Hull’s Stuart Elliott will link up later as they are involved in league games tonight.