McCourt omitted from NI squad

McCourt, who scored a wonder goal in Celtic's opening game against Inverness, was expected by many supporters to be included in Nigel Worthington's squad.

The Northern Ireland boss defended his decision to again not select the talented Celtic winger.

"Paddy is a wonderful footballer. On the ball he can do this, that and the other and I've spoken to Paddy, so he knows what he needs to do," explained Worthington.

"Great Northern Ireland players such as (George) Best, (Norman) Whiteside, (Gerry) Armstrong...they have all worked very hard with the ball and without (the ball).

"With all the craft that Paddy has, if he can get the graft side, the work ethic, what a great player he would be for us."