N. Ireland's Worthington faces anxious over future

08 October 2011 15:05

Northern Ireland manager Nigel Worthington admits he faces an anxious wait to discover if he will be sacked for his country's failure to qualify for Euro 2012.

Worthington's side wasted their last chance to stay in the hunt for a play-off place after allowing Estonia to come from behind to win 2-1 in Belfast on Friday.

That disappointing result left Northern Ireland with no chance of finishing second in Group C and increased the pressure on Worthington, who had to endure calls for his resignation as angry northern Irish fans showed their frustration after the final whistle at Windsor Park.

Worthington, who has been in charge since Lawrie Sanchez's departure in 2007, is out of contract at the end of the year.

He has one more qualifier to play -- against Italy in Tuesday -- and he knows that could be his last match as Northern Ireland manager.

"The fans are as frustrated and disappointed as I am," he said. "That's the game and I've been in football long enough to get on with it. There's no excuses, no hiding places.

"I haven't got a clue (about the future). That's the million dollar question.

"A win is what myself and the players wanted. What other people make decisions about is up to them. I'm employed until December 31 and I've enjoyed the role.

"I'm working with a great group of players and you try and make the most of that group. I think over the course of this campaign we have."

Source: AFP