 Nigel Worthington says some players' behaviour was unacceptable |
Northern Ireland boss Nigel Worthington has said the behaviour of some of his players on a flight home from Iceland last month was "very disturbing". Keith Gillespie and Jonny Evans were fined by the Irish Football Association as a result of the incident after the 2-1 Euro qualifier defeat in Reykjavik.
"It should never have happened and it is something I dislike very much. This type of behaviour won't be tolerated.
"It has been dealt with, it's behind us and there must be no repeat," he said.
"It is not a pleasant thing to happen, although it was blown out of proportion a bit," added the Northern Ireland manager.
Worthington confirmed that he will consult with Gillespie next week as to whether the winger has recovered sufficiently from a hamstring injury to take his place in the squad for the forthcoming qualifier away to Sweden on 17 October.
Damien Johnson is out for another four to six weeks, Michael Duff will be out of action for up to a year with a knee injury and Warren Feeney and Chris Baird are suspended for the Stockholm showdown.
"We will be missing a few players but that opens the door for others to come in and stake their claim," argued Worthington.
The NI boss also expressed frustration that Ivan Sproule and Gareth McAuley had quetioned their own international futures in the media, rather than speaking to him.
"It is strange that some players are talking about retiring from international careers that have not even really started.
"I understand their frustration but being in a squad is part of life in football and I'm disappointed that they chose to speak to the press before talking to the manager.
"I am very approachable and am willing to discuss any player's individual situation but there will be opportunities and I advise players to keep an open mind and be ready if and when they are called upon.
"I have spoken to Ivan and I know it is difficult because he has only played five minutes in this qualifying series but he says he is available and wants to be selected."
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