Chris Baird will miss the match against Sweden

Chris Baird will not join up with the Northern Ireland squad for Wednesday night's Euro 2008 qualifier against Sweden at Windsor Park.

The Southampton defender has failed to overcome a groin injury.

Sanchez must also plan without winger Keith Gillespie who is suspended after being booked in Saturday night's 4-1 win over Liechtenstein in Vaduz.

Grant McCann, Steve Jones and Ivan Sproule are all in contention to replace Gillespie in the starting team.

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"Sweden will be glad Keith is missing but it gives someone else a chance to show what they can do," said Sanchez.

Damien Johnson sat out training on Monday as a precaution but will be fit to face the Swedes.

Northern Ireland are still very much in the hunt for one of the top two qualifying spots and a win against the Swedes would take them to the top of Group F.

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"The dream is still alive and there is a different expectation than there was three years ago," said Sanchez.

"We have a chance of stopping Sweden, who are running away with the group. If we get anything from the game that will be fantastic."

The NI boss has the greatest respect for Sweden, who played at the World Cup finals last year.

"They have a very good manager in Lars Lagerback and their players play at the highest level.

"But hopefully we will have a magical night at Windsor. One thing is for sure - we will give a performance," he said.