The NI players had a look at the Stadio Olimpico in San Marino on Tuesday

Northern Ireland's World Cup qualifier against San Marino will go ahead after earlier worries about the possibility of the pitch being flooded.

San Marino was lashed by rain, sleet, hail and high winds on Wednesday morning, raising concerns about the playing surface in Serravalle.

The referee was expected to make a check on conditions in the afternoon.

Victory over San Marino could see Northern Ireland leap into second place in Group Three on goal difference.

But they are without Norwich City's Sammy Clingan who has been ruled out because of a thigh strain.

Doncaster's Dean Shiels has also been ruled out by an ankle injury.

Damien Johnson, Kyle Lafferty and Grant McCann are being tipped to play in midfield with Martin Paterson partnering David Healy up front.

Birmingham midfielder Johnson will make his return to Northern Ireland duty after a lengthy absence caused by injury.

Clingan's injury is likely to open the door to a start for Scunthorpe United's McCann.

Paterson's recent run of goals for Burnley is likely to mean promotion to the starting line-up, with Healy's regular striking partner Lafferty playing in midfield alongside Johnson, McCann and Steven Davis.

George McCartney will be available to play in defence after missing training on Monday because of blisters while Warren Feeney is also expected to be available despite a minor virus.

Clingan broke down in training at the squad's base in Riccoine and will be returning to his club for treatment.

Northern Ireland boss Nigel Worthington described Clingan's unavailable as a "disappointment".

"Sammy is a big player for us," added the manager.

"He did not train Sunday and yesterday and had to step out of today's session, so he will be going back."

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