Northern Ireland midfielder Jeff Whitley will undergo a fitness test later today when he joins up with the rest of the squad. Whitley is doubtful for Saturday's World Cup 2002 qualifier against Bulgaria at Windsor Park because a cut on his leg is taking longer than expected to heal. Whitley sustained the injury while playing for his club Manchester City on the last day of the season and required stitches. However, Northern Ireland boss Sammy McIlroy is hoping that Whitely can be declared fit.
"Jeff's going to be travelling over and we'll have a look at him and take it from there. I spoke to his doctor and he's got a bit of a cut on the side of his knee which isn't healing as quick as they thought. That was a week ago and we've asked him to come over to see if it's healed much more since," he explained.
Meanwhile, Bulgaria will be without their experienced midfielder Marian Hristov for Saturday's game. Hristov is currently recovering from a broken foot and although he could be fit enough to play against Iceland on June 6, he will not be risked for the game in Belfast.
Filed by Amanda Fennelly
