Source: Team_Talk
Worthington could go with Ward
Ward, 23, has been recalled to the squad for the vital World Cup qualifiers against Poland and Slovakia.
He sat out the draw with Israel in a friendly but his bright start to the season has caught the eye of manager Nigel Worthington.
Ward got his second goal of the campaign in the 3-1 defeat of Reading on Saturday. Last season he scored 18 goals for Chesterfield and then the Blades.
Worthington said: "Jamie has scored a couple already for Sheffield United, which is pleasing.
"We have not been blessed with goals throughout this campaign, so he might just get on and become a hero for us."
Record scorer David Healy, Kyle Lafferty, Martin Paterson and Andrew Little have all been called up in attack.
Worthington looks certain to start with Healy as he believes the Sunderland front man will end his goal drought in the final three qualifiers.
"If we had a Torres or Defoe, then I could say to him, have a breather. But we are not in that situation," said the former Norwich boss.
"I have got to go with him. Knowing David's passion for his
country, he is very frustrated. He wants to put things right and what better time than over the course of the next three games."
Like Healy, goalkeeper Maik Taylor seems to get the thumbs-up even though he lost his place to Joe Hart at Birmingham as both Jonny Tuffey and Alan Mannus are inexperienced.
Worthington said: "I am not concerned about Maik's situation as he is a terrific pro.
"One thing you know about him is that he will be working damn hard to push the other goalkeeper all the way. He will be looking after himself."
Fulham defender Chris Baird is suspended for the match against Poland in Chorzow on September 5 but available to face Slovakia at home four days later.
Worthington added: "We are in a very good position and have worked hard to get there. We have to really go for it over the course of the remaining games.
"A good result in Poland is not getting beaten. That would enable us to return to Northern Ireland on the Sunday with everyone bouncing."
