Source: Team_Talk
Worthington hails NI's Johnson
The Birmingham midfielder marked his first international apeparance in 11 months with an impressive display in a comprehensive 3-0 victory over San Marino in Serravalle on Wednesday night.[LNB]Johnson, who had a back operation in the summer, gave the opposition defenders a harrowing time with his ability on the right flank.[LNB]Worthington was delighted with the player's display.[LNB]"It was a super performance by Damien," he said. "He is a great pro with a great attitude.[LNB]"I am delighted he is back and fit again. He was very controlled and kept it neat and tidy. He got lots of crosses in."[LNB]Gareth McAuley and Chris Brunt both scored for the province for the first time and Grant McCann was also on target.[LNB]In the process they propelled the team into second place in Group Three on goal difference, although they have played a game more than their rivals.[LNB]It was just the reuslt Worthington wanted with back-to-back home fixtures to come against Poland Slovenia next month.[LNB]He said: "The goal was to get the three points and we achieved that to go second in the table.[LNB]"That sets us up nicely for the match against Poland. We have played a game more but we are back in the mix.[LNB]"It was a very professional, solid performance tonight. We scored three goals and kept a clean sheet so it was very pleasing. I was delighted with our attitude.[LNB]"People might say it is only San Marino but you still have to go out and do the job. The big plus was getting an early goal. That settled everyone down."[LNB]Worthington, however, will be without Kyle Lafferty, Steven Davis and George McCartney for the Poland match after they all picked up yellow cards.[LNB]Worthington is considering questioning McCartney's booking in particular and said: "I did not have a full view but people who have seen it on TV say it was a little bit harsh.[LNB]"I will inquire whether they can review it. We will ask the question and see where we go.[LNB]"Having the three bookings was the only blip and something we could have done without.[LNB]"The upside is we will have two first-class players in Jonny Evans and Sammy Clingan back from injury.[LNB]"That eases the blow slightly but you want all your good players fit and available."[LNB][LNB]
