Monday 10 September 2012

NI boss Michael O'Neill ponders attacking options for Luxembourg

Shane Ferguson
Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill says he will make changes to his starting line-up as he contemplates a more attacking formation for the World Cup qualifier against Luxembourg.
Shane Ferguson missed the 2-0 defeat in Russia through injury but has strong claims to replace Corry Evans in midfield after returning to the squad.
Dean Shiels could be preferred to Jamie Ward as Kyle Lafferty's strike partner.
Ryan McGivern may challenge Craig Cathcart in the left full-back role.
McGivern's more attacking instincts could earn him the nod over the Blackpool defender as O'Neill plans for a game from which his side must surely take three points if they are to retain realistic hopes of competing for qualification for the 2014 finals in Brazil.

Shiels' omission from the side to face Russia was something of a surprise given his impressive performances in the friendly internationals under O'Neill, but the Rangers player is likely to feature from the start this time.
Ferguson also produced creditable displays in the matches against Norway and Finland, with the Newcastle midfielder opening the scoring against the Finns at Windsor Park in August.
Roy Carroll is certain to hold onto the goalkeeper's jersey given Lee Camp's withdrawal for "personal reasons" while Premier League trio Aaron Hughes, Gareth McAuley and Jonny Evans are set to complete the defence.

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