Northern Ireland captain Aaron Hughes insists David Healy is refusing to be downhearted despite his barren run in front of goal.
Sunderland striker Healy heads into Tuesday night's Euro 2012 qualifier against the Faroe Islands having failed to score for the team in two years. He also faces stiff competition from Kyle Lafferty, who impressed in the goalless draw with Italy on Friday after stepping off the bench.
Asked if the lack of goals was affecting Healy's mood, Hughes said: "No, I do not think it is getting to him. In training he is exactly the same. Around the hotel he is exactly the same. He enjoys scoring goals, that is how he has made his living and if he gets one then I am sure more goals will follow."
He added: "I would be delighted if David managed to get a goal against the Faroes.
"But it wouldn't be just because he's ended his lean spell, it would be because it was towards a Northern Ireland win and a vital three points in our qualifying campaign.
"When a striker goes a few games without scoring, the attention seems to go on him. But we are all willing him to score.
"He is a goalscorer, a proven one at that. Every striker goes through a lean spell and I'm confident he will come out of it scoring plenty of goals."
Source: PA
