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NI eyeing winning start to campaign
Worthington: Hopes for win in Slovakia
Worthington will have to hope their away form does not mirror that of their Euro 2008 campaign if they are to reach the World Cup finals in two years' time.
They had a successful run in the Euro qualifiers which saw them beat Spain, Sweden and Denmark, but lose away to Latvia and Iceland and ultimately end in failure.
Northern Ireland can, however, take promise from their recent draw against Scotland at Hampden Park but placed in Group 3, they will face some stiff competition against the likes of the Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia and San Marino.
But Worthington wants his players to have the opportunity he had back in 1986 when he featured for his country in their last appearance at the World Cup finals.
Keith Gillespie has shaken off an ankle injury and is ready to launch into a remarkable 15th season wearing the Northern Ireland colours.
The Sheffield United winger looks set to win his 82nd cap against Slovakia.
Kyle Lafferty was forced to withdraw from the squad with a back injury earlier this week so Martin Paterson could start in attack alongside David Healy.
Slovakia head into the game without a win in their last four matches.
Kick-off is at 4.30pm.
