Baird, Doherty in for Northern Ireland

Southampton full-back Chris Baird and Bristol City midfielder Tommy Doherty will make their debuts for Northern Ireland against…

Southampton full-back Chris Baird and Bristol City midfielder Tommy Doherty will make their debuts for Northern Ireland against Italy tomorrow.

Baird impressed after making a surprise start for Southampton in the FA Cup final defeat against Arsenal last month while Doherty played a telling role in helping Bristol City reach the Second Division play-offs.

Newcastle defender Aaron Hughes will captain the side in a match being staged to raise money for the victims of last October's earthquake in the region.

James Quinn and Keith Gillespie have not travelled to Italy. Both were sent off in Northern Ireland's last European Championship qualifier, a 2-0 defeat against Greece, and cannot play in their next game against Spain.

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Steve Lomas is unavailable due to injury.