Worthington hopes for Evans boost

Northern Ireland manager Nigel Worthington is waiting for news of Jonny Evans’ fitness today.

The promising Manchester United defender stayed at home with a virus when the squad flew out to prepare for their World Cup qualifier against Slovenia on Saturday.

Worthington is monitoring the situation and hoping that Evans recovers in time for the match in Maribor.

The former Norwich boss does not want to lose any more defenders as Stephen Craigan and Michael Duff have already been ruled out through injury.

Worthington said: “I have spoken to Jonny and he doesn’t feel great but I’m hoping he will fly out and join us before the game.

“In an ideal world, we would like him to be out with us on Wednesday but we will have to see how he feels.”

Birmingham goalkeeper Maik Taylor has not trained with the squad as he has flu.

However he did travel with the group and is confident that he will be fit to play.

Worthington added: “Maik has had the flu for a few days now but should be okay.”

With Sammy Clingan and Chris Brunt also missing through injury, Grant McCann and Ryan McGivern have been called up.