30/03/2004
NI arrive in Tallinn for friendly fixture
The Northern Ireland squad have arrived in Tallinn today ahead of Wednesday's friendly against Estonia on Wednesday.
The match is another important game in terms of build up for the forthcoming World Cup 2006 Qualifying campaign.
Manager Lawrie Sanchez has rested a number of regulars, including captain Aaron Hughes, and travelled with an inexperienced squad with full intentions of testing the mettle of some of the up and coming players.
These include Plymouth Argyle star Tony Capaldi who is widely expected to win his first cap. The 22-year-old left-back, who can also play in midfield, will hope to shine and put pressure on Watford's Peter Kennedy for the forthcoming campaign which includes taking on the might of England and Wales.
Joining him in the back four is likely to be Chris Baird, Mark Williams and Steven Craigan.
Northern Ireland's midfield has an abundance of talent, with Michael Hughes, Keith Gillespie and Damien Johnston all being rested, but it will be Sanchez' chance to check on other potentials. Steve Jones, Danny Sonner, Jeff Whitley and Philip Mulryne are likely to start following the withdrawal of fans' favourite Tommy Doherty.
But up front it will be same again as Glentoran's Andy Smith and Preston forward David Healy lead the front line.
Goalkeeper Maik Taylor is likely to captain the side.
(MB)
The match is another important game in terms of build up for the forthcoming World Cup 2006 Qualifying campaign.
Manager Lawrie Sanchez has rested a number of regulars, including captain Aaron Hughes, and travelled with an inexperienced squad with full intentions of testing the mettle of some of the up and coming players.
These include Plymouth Argyle star Tony Capaldi who is widely expected to win his first cap. The 22-year-old left-back, who can also play in midfield, will hope to shine and put pressure on Watford's Peter Kennedy for the forthcoming campaign which includes taking on the might of England and Wales.
Joining him in the back four is likely to be Chris Baird, Mark Williams and Steven Craigan.
Northern Ireland's midfield has an abundance of talent, with Michael Hughes, Keith Gillespie and Damien Johnston all being rested, but it will be Sanchez' chance to check on other potentials. Steve Jones, Danny Sonner, Jeff Whitley and Philip Mulryne are likely to start following the withdrawal of fans' favourite Tommy Doherty.
But up front it will be same again as Glentoran's Andy Smith and Preston forward David Healy lead the front line.
Goalkeeper Maik Taylor is likely to captain the side.
(MB)
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
01 March 2024
New 'Make it Local' Campaign Launched In Newry, Mourne and Down
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council and the Department for Communities has launched a new 'Make It Local' public relations and advertising campaign, to urge residents to buy from and celebrate their local and independent businesses.
New 'Make it Local' Campaign Launched In Newry, Mourne and Down
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council and the Department for Communities has launched a new 'Make It Local' public relations and advertising campaign, to urge residents to buy from and celebrate their local and independent businesses.
28 February 2024
New Fitness Campaign To Support People With Learning Disabilities
A new campaign to raise awareness of the benefits of physical activity and support people with learning disabilities has been launched by Mencap NI and Oscar Winning Ambassador Dr James Martin MBE in partnership with Better.
New Fitness Campaign To Support People With Learning Disabilities
A new campaign to raise awareness of the benefits of physical activity and support people with learning disabilities has been launched by Mencap NI and Oscar Winning Ambassador Dr James Martin MBE in partnership with Better.
06 February 2024
New Campaign Raises Awareness Of Online Grooming
A new campaign to raise awareness of the dangers for children online has been launched by the PSNI and the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland (SBNI), on Safer Internet Day, Tuesday 6th February 2024. According to the PSNI, online sexual offences against children are becoming an increasing crime type in Northern Ireland.
New Campaign Raises Awareness Of Online Grooming
A new campaign to raise awareness of the dangers for children online has been launched by the PSNI and the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland (SBNI), on Safer Internet Day, Tuesday 6th February 2024. According to the PSNI, online sexual offences against children are becoming an increasing crime type in Northern Ireland.
11 March 2024
Justice Minister Launches New 'These Are Your Rights' Campaign
A new campaign to promote the rights of victims and witnesses has been launched by Justice Minister, Naomi Long, in partnership with the Commissioner Designate for Victims of Crime, Geraldine Hanna.
Justice Minister Launches New 'These Are Your Rights' Campaign
A new campaign to promote the rights of victims and witnesses has been launched by Justice Minister, Naomi Long, in partnership with the Commissioner Designate for Victims of Crime, Geraldine Hanna.
11 March 2024
New Spring Motorcycle Safety Campaign Launches
A new safety campaign focusing on the safety of motorcyclists and urging everyone to take on the roads as spring approaches, has been launched by the PSNI.
New Spring Motorcycle Safety Campaign Launches
A new safety campaign focusing on the safety of motorcyclists and urging everyone to take on the roads as spring approaches, has been launched by the PSNI.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:Mainly dry this morning with sunny spells then scattered showers breaking out this afternoon. A chilly start then feeling warmer in afternoon sunshine. Light southerly winds. Maximum temperature 11 °C.Tonight:Any showers at first soon dying out. Then dry overnight with clear periods and turning chilly with a touch of frost later tonight. Minimum temperature 1 °C.