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Maik Taylor the best for N. Ireland

last updated Sunday 18th February 2001, 9:49 AM
Maik Taylor
Maik Taylor selected for Northern Ireland
MAIK TAYLOR wants no harm to come to his Northern Ireland goalkeeping colleague Roy Carroll, but he is thankful an injury has forced Carroll out of next week's friendly international against Norway in Belfast.

Taylor has had to play second fiddle to Wigan's prize asset since the appointment of Sammy McIlroy as international manager, and has told the manager of his disappointment at being dropped for World Cup qualifiers against Iceland, Denmark and Malta.

The Fulham net-minder, who has an aim to prove himself as a Premiership 'keeper since being shown the door at Southampton, now aims to put McIlroy between a rock and hard place when he selects his side for next month's World Cup qualifier against the Czech Republic.

"After the Denmark game, and before we headed off to Iceland, I went to Sammy and had a chat about my feelings. I was very disappointed not to be selected after fighting to win my shirt when Lawrie McMenemy was in charge.

"Sammy told me he was glad I was disappointed because that's the reaction he wanted. He told me to give it my best shot the next time an opportunity arose, and against Norway I intend to take it.

"Roy Carroll is out of the game due to injury and that's the main reason why I have chance to prove myself. It's a bit of luck for me, but I would not wish Roy any harm.

"I would much rather he was part of the squad and that the best 'keeper was picked to play.

"Roy is a superb 'keeper with a bright future and he has been superb for Northern Ireland. The competition to play is bringing out the best in both of us and now that I have this chance to play I intend to give the manager something to think about."

Taylor is joined in the squad by Manchester City veteran Tommy Wright but is expected to be handed the number one shirt.


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