McIlroy's vital mission

David Healy, who has scored five goals in six games, will be central to Northern Ireland's chances of adding to their four points from their first two World Cup qualifiers when they take on Iceland in Reykjavik tonight.

David Healy, who has scored five goals in six games, will be central to Northern Ireland's chances of adding to their four points from their first two World Cup qualifiers when they take on Iceland in Reykjavik tonight.

Even though Iceland have already lost to Denmark and the Czech Republic, victory for Northern Ireland will not be easy as it would be their first win away from home since they won 1-0 in Latvia in April 1995.

Damien Johnson came through a final fitness test yesterday and will replace Jeff Whitley on the right wing in the only change from Saturday's home draw with Denmark.

Northern Ireland's coach, Sammy McIlroy, will check on Gerry Taggart, who is expected to play but has not trained because of his knee problem.

Iceland (probable): B Kristinsson; Jonsson, Sverrisson, Hreidarsson, Helgason; Trygguason, Kolvidsson, R Kristinsson, Helguson; Gudjohnsen, Dadason.

Northern Ireland (probable): Carroll; A Hughes, Taggart, Murdock, Lomas; Elliott, Horlock, Lennon, Magilton, Johnson; Healy.

Referee: M Merk (Ger).