Gillespie sweats over ban

Keith Gillespie is waiting for confirmation that his probable three-match ban will apply only to friendly matches and not competitive games.

The Sheffield United utility player is a key member of the Northern Ireland team and they can ill-afford to do without him against England, Wales and, first, Azerbaijan in World Cup qualifiers.

Gillespie, dismissed by referee Mike Riley, was caught on camera slapping Andrew Cohen and kicking the ball away.

Cohen’s team-mate Ivan Woods then got involved and was also dismissed after raising his hands, prompting a free-for-all.

Manager Lawrie Sanchez refused to defend Gillespie for his actions. “If he slapped the player then he is as responsible as the other lad.

“It is disappointing he got involved. He was one of our better players.

“To be fair to Keith, he plays with a lot of heart and commitment when he puts the shirt on.

“We haven’t always seen eye to eye but he is a full-blooded player.”