Irish duo back for England clash

Northern Ireland manager Lawrie Sanchez recalled Damien Johnson and Stuart Elliott for the World Cup qualifier against England at Old Trafford.

Both players were sidelined last month through injury when the province lost 1-0 to Canada in a friendly at Windsor Park.

They replaced George McCartney, who had returned to Sunderland with a groin strain, and Aston Villa’s Steven Davis, who was on the bench today.

Birmingham goalkeeper Maik Taylor retained his place with Roy Carroll of Manchester United on the bench.