Northern Ireland football fans have reacted angrily to the current debate over whether the National Anthem - which is played before international games - should be replaced.

The debate was sparked after SDLP MLA for East Londonderry, John Dallat, said that the playing of 'God Save The Queen' before international matches was being exploited by "bigots" and that it was deterring Catholics from attending matches.

Ulster Unionist assembly member, and former Sports Minister, Michael McGimpsey then entered the fray saying that Northern Ireland's constitutional position within the UK provided that the National Anthem was a "legitimate symbol" for international fixtures.

The IFA's response to the debate was to confirm that the National Anthem was not up for review and that it would continue to be played before international matches for the forseeable future.

While a spokesperson from the Official Amalgamation of Northern Ireland Supporters Clubs could not be contacted (due to travel commitments for this Saturday's international game with Armenia), many fans from supporters clubs have expressed annoyance through phone calls, emails and discussion board websites. Many have expressed the view that the current debate is being used as a "political football" in the run up to May's assembly elections.

A debate is already under way on whether Northern Ireland should adopt a new anthem similar to those used by Scottish and Welsh sport teams - who play 'Flower of Scotland' and 'Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau' ('Land Of My Fathers') before games. The popular folk song 'Danny Boy' - which has been used at the Commonwealth Games as Northern Ireland's anthem - is among proposed alternatives.

The national side have two important Euro qualifying fixtures in the next seven days. They are set to face Armenia in Yerevan on Saturday, followed by Greece in Belfast next Wednesday.

Sammy McIlroy's side has been hit with a number of withdrawals including the latest casualties - George McCartney and Kevin Horlock. The latter announced his retirement from international football because of family reasons.

(MB)