Northern Ireland senior men’s boss Ian Baraclough has given an update on the squad ahead of travelling to Italy for their FIFA World Cup 2022 qualification opener.
The manager confirmed Derry City keeper Nathan Gartside and Hearts striker Liam Boyce will not travel ahead of tomorrow evening's game.
“Nathan Gartside has got a medical issue that needs sorted and he won’t be travelling to Italy," he said. “That’s the very reason why we brought Liam Hughes into the group.
“On Liam Boyce, I’ve allowed him to play for Hearts last night. He’s close to home and close to his wife who has just given birth.”
Baraclough also revealed that a decision on Newcastle United defender Jamal Lewis’ availability for the clash against the Azzurri will be made later.
