2010 World Cup qualifying draw

Northern Ireland boss Nigel Worthington said he was excited by the 2010 World Cup qualifiers awaiting his team.

The Czech Republic and Poland join Northern Ireland in Group 3 along with Slovakia, Slovenia and San Marino.

"I would rather have the group this way than have three to four easy ones and one difficult one," he said.

"It's more difficult than the Euro 2008 qualifiers as only one team qualifies automatically but it's very interesting and there's plenty to look forward to "

The Czech Republic are the top seeds in the group and both they and Poland topped their Euro 2008 qualifying groups.

"The Czechs and Poland stand out straight away, they are very strong, in-form teams," added Worthington.

"Slovakia and Slovenia, certainly away from Windsor Park, will not be easy games while San Marino are one of those teams you are expected to beat.

"With only one team going through automatically it means you've got to be on your metal from game one."

Worthington's contract as N Ireland manager expired after Wednesday's defeat in Spain but the Irish FA want the former Norwich boss to stay on in the job.

Talks will take place after the IFA's delegation returns from Sunday's World Cup draw in Durban.

"I will see how they (IFA) are looking to take things forward and then I can put my side of the story to them.

"If the two tally up we can move forward together."

Source: news.bbc.co.uk