NORTHERN IRELAND manager Nigel Worthington has secured the long-term futures of three of his senior players ahead of the final World Cup qualifier against the Czech Republic in Prague.

Captain Aaron Hughes, goalkeeper Maik Taylor and defender Stephen Craigan have all agreed to continue their international careers after talks with the former Norwich boss.

Northern Ireland’s chances of making the play-offs are all but over as Slovenia only need a point against San Marino to finally dash their hopes.

The home defeat by Slovakia cost the province dear but Worthington is determined to finish on a high note.

He said: “We will have 2,000 supporters and we owe them a performance after what happened at Windsor Park.”