Worthington's appointment for the remaining six qualifiers in Group F has been largely welcomed by Northern Ireland fans but they may be concerned that at his desire to return to a club post. "I would love to do club management and the [Irish Football Association] know that," he said. "But I am fully committed to the Northern Ireland national team for the next six games no matter what happens. If all goes well then we can look at it further and if it doesn't we can go our separate ways. But I am young enough and I have got the energy and the drive to want to do club management."

Worthington, who will be assisted by Southampton FC coach Glynn Snodin and Fred Barber, goalkeeping coach at Bolton Wanderers FC, said that he would only "tinker" with the playing approach put in place by his predecessor Sanchez, which helped take Northern Ireland to the top of Group F with home wins against Spain and Sweden. "I will try and carry on the good qualities Lawrie has put in place," said Worthington. "I am high on discipline and I want the players to play with passion. I am very proud to be taking this role because when your country comes calling in such circumstances you look forward to the task. There was not much selling to do."