Gillespie dropped from North squad

Northern Ireland’s most experienced player Keith Gillespie has been omitted from the squad for the World Cup qualifier against San Marino on February 11.

Gillespie, 33, is currently without a club having had his contract at Sheffield United terminated by mutual consent.

The former Manchester United and Newcastle winger has been a key figure over the years for the Province after winning the first of his 86 caps in September 1994.

Manager Nigel Worthington has recalled influential trio Aaron Hughes, George McCartney and Steven Davis after they missed the defeat by Hungary in a friendly at Windsor Park in November.

Damien Johnson and Stephen Craigan are also back following injury problems as Northern Ireland look to complete the double over San Marino.

Worthington has also called up promising Celtic pair Niall McGinn and Pat McCourt for this away fixture.