Carroll back in goal for NI

Manchester United goalkeeper Roy Carroll won a surprise recall to the Northern Ireland team tonight for this World Cup qualifier.

Carroll, who replaces Birmingham’s Maik Taylor, made his last appearance in the draw against Switzerland in a friendly two months ago.

But his last competitive game for his country came three years ago when he faced Bulgaria.

Top scorer David Healy returns to the team after serving a one-match ban.

He comes in for Stuart Elliott, while Keith Gillespie and George McCartney replace injured pair Chris Baird and Mark Clyde.

Northern Ireland manager Lawrie Sanchez knows a first victory in the qualifying campaign is necessary if they are to hold out any hopes of a play-off spot.