Worthington happy with squad form

Northern Ireland manager Nigel Worthington has no fresh injuries ahead of their game against Republic of Ireland.

Blackpool’s Craig Cathcart will join up with the rest of the squad today following yesterday’s defeat against Manchester United, which saw the Seasiders lose their bid for Barclays Premier League survival.

Speaking ahead of tomorrow’s Carling Nations Cup clash in Dublin, Worthington said: “Craig Cathcart is coming this afternoon. Everybody else trained this morning. They are in good fettle and it was a lively session. They are in good form.”

Defender Gareth McAuley will wear the captain’s armband at the Aviva Stadium.

The 31-year-old’s move to West Brom on a free transfer from Ipswich was confirmed today.

He said: “I’m delighted to get it sorted out. It’s been going on for a couple of weeks and that’s it done. It’s another step up, another progression in the journey of my career. It’s a challenge to get into the team first and foremost.

“They have good players there but I back myself all the way as I always have done. I’ve worked hard and sometimes you get the rewards. I’ve now got to get into the team and prove I can play there.”

Northern Ireland team to play Republic of Ireland at the Aviva Stadium, Dublin, May 24:

A Blayney, A Thompson, C Cathcart, G McAuley, L Hodson, J Carson, S Clingan, S Davis, J Gorman, W Feeney, J McQuoid.