NI boss says fans have key role

World Cup 2010 qualifying Group Three: Slovenia v Northern Ireland
Venue: Maribor Date: Saturday, 11 October Kick-off: 1945 BST Coverage: Live on BBC Radio Ulster, Updates on BBC Sport website and BBC Radio 5 Live

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Northern Ireland players training in Slovenia ahead of the qualifier

Northern Ireland boss Nigel Worthington says the team's supporters have a huge role to play in Saturday's World Cup qualifying game against Slovenia.

"We will have 1200 fans in a crowd of 12,000 and hopefully if they make enough noise it will feel like a home match," said Worthington.

"If they do that, we perform like we have done in training and we get the rub of the green, we can get a result.

"I've told my team to treat the stadium like Windsor Park and focus on that."

The renovated Ljudski Stadium will be packed to its 12,262 capacity for the match which kicks off at 1945 BST.

"It will be fresh when the game kicks off so we will have to run around and keep warm, which we are used to," added the Northern Ireland boss.

Worthington believes Sunderland striker David Healy will soon get off the mark in this qualifying series after scoring a record 13 goals in the Euro 2008 qualifying campaign.

"David's mood has been first class. We have done ample work with him this week as far as finishing is concerned and he has enjoyed that.

"He has been working hard and training with a smile on his face.

"When he comes with Northern Ireland there is no-one prouder or happier than him to be training or representing his country.

"That is the type of person you want."