Carroll pulls out of NI squad

Injury blow keeps goalkeeper Roy Carroll at home

Manchester United goalkeeper Roy Carroll has pulled out of Northern Ireland's friendly against Poland in Cyprus on Wednesday.

Carroll picked up a back injury during United's 2-0 victory over Charlton on Sunday.

With Fabien Barthez already recovering from a slight knock, United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is wary that he could be left short.

Coming into the panel is Sunderland's former NI under-21 keeper Michael Ingham.

Oldham's David Miskelly was the initial choice as Carroll's replacement, but he has not fully recovered from a broken shoulder.

Comeback

However, Fulham's Maik Taylor is set to continue his five-game run in the number one jersey.

Carroll's absence follows the withdrawal of Bournemouth's Warren Feeney who has a hamstring injury.

But the better news for manager Sammy McIlroy is the return of West Ham's Steve Lomas who makes his international comeback after a 16-month break.

Lomas was omitted from the original panel on the request of Hammers' boss Glenn Roeder as the midfielder had just recovered from a broken toe.

However, West Ham have no game this weekend, and McIlroy convinced Roeder that Wednesday's game would be a good chance for a run-out.

Steve has been my captain since I got the job, and that won't change

Sammy McIlroy

''I'm naturally delighted to have the skipper back again,'' said McIlroy.

''I had a word with Glenn and told him that a little bit of a work-out for Steve on Wednesday would help his fitness.

''Jim Magilton has been a very good captain in Steve's absence.

''But Steve has been my captain since I got the job, and that won't change.

''We need a fit Stevie Lomas. He's a great leader and plays with such enthusiasm and it's great to have him back.''