IFA president Jim Boyce says Worthington is the man for the job

"I feel this man will bring a passion and a desire to make sure we qualify for the Euro 2008 finals and I know the players are determined to reach there.

"The fans need to cheer us on the way they did with Lawrie and I don't think the team will let them down," he said.

"It's important the new manager now has time to watch other group teams."

Former Northern Ireland defender Worthington was appointed as Lawrie Sanchez's successor on Friday.

Former Northern Ireland striker Billy Hamilton said he "applauded the IFA for getting the matter sorted in a relatively short space of time".

"Nigel needs time to get his feet under the table and meet the players and he knows what is required to make the finals of a major tournament.

"Lawrie Sanchez has left us in a good position but the job is only half done and we have difficult matches coming up.

"The players have been punching above their weight in beating Spain and Sweden so confidence is high, the spirit in the camp is good and the players have bonded well.

"Nigel is from here, he has a Northern Ireland mentality, loves the place and the supporters and knows what makes us tick so I think it is a good choice.

"He deserves credit for the job he did at Norwich, getting them to the Premiership with limited resources," said Hamilton.