Lawrie Sanchez was happy after the draw for Euro 2008

"Latvia, Iceland or Liechtenstein would be nice and I don't really mind if it is home or away," said the NI boss.

"Obviously I would like to play one of the early games at home and we want to get some early points on the board."

"We lost 3-0 at home to Poland in our first qualifier last time and I don't want that situation arising again."

Sanchez told BBC NI's Season Ticket programme that it would be nice to have drawn the Republic of Ireland or one of the Home Nations in the draw but he is pleased that his squad will not have too far to travel.

"Most places are within three hours travelling time and that is good for both the team and the fans.

"We know the countries we are going to will have good facilities, good pitches and we will be well supported so those are all plus points."

The former Wimbledon player also indicated his support for the construction of a national stadium as a matter of urgency.

"We need a stadium we can go to with pride and get more than 14,000 people into. We need a national stadium to be built very soon if we want to progress on the football field. Wales is an example of the effect that can have."

The Northern Ireland manager added that it was "more than likely" that his side would not play a friendly at the end of the season, after Italy decided not to come to Windsor Park at the end of May.

I'd love to play the Republic and so would my players Lawrie Sanchez

"I think they decided that we were a bit too rough for them and they may pick up a few injuries ahead of the World Cup", quipped Sanchez.

"There is no point playing a fixture for the sake of playing a fixture and the players will be going on holiday so at the moment it is unlikely we will play anyone.

"Everyone knows the problems we had fielding a team against Germany last June," he told BBC Sport.

The NI boss also said he would welcome the chance to face the Republic of Ireland in a friendly, but added that it would be difficult to organise such matches in the face of a crowded qualifying fixture list.

"I'd love to play the Republic and so would my players but with 12 competitive fixtures to be played, there will be fewer friendly dates."