Neil Lennon has been shocked and distressed by the sectarian threats made against him ahead of Northern Ireland's friendly against Norway this evening.

Lennon, who is a Catholic, has been targeted by loyalists because of his decision to join Celtic and his claim that he would like to play for an all-Ireland team.

The slogan "Neil Lennon R.I.P." has been daubed on one gable end and the midfielder has been appalled by these sinister threats. He claims he is totally committed to playing for Northern Ireland.

"It's been pretty upsetting for me and my family," he said. "At the end of the day I do have a family. I'm a human being and I do have a daughter to think of."

Irish manager Sammy McIlroy has been just as shocked and sickened by the threats and he has appealed for all of the fans to get behind Lennon during today's match.

"This is very serious and we are concerned for Neil, his family and his friends," said McIlroy. "Hopefully it is just a hoax and was done after a few drinks and someone got carried away."

Ulster Unionist minister Michael McGimpsey, who is the executive's Culture, Arts and Leisure Minister said he was "dismayed" by the threats.

McIlroy will be glued to the weather forecasts ahead of today's pitch inspection at Windsor Park which will determine if the match can go ahead at all.

McIlroy is desperate to play the game and is hoping it will survive the big freeze which has gripped the province.

If the match goes ahead, Linfield part-timer Glenn Ferguson is expected to make his full debut up front, while Birmingham winger Jon McCarthy, back after breaking his leg, will make his first appearance under McIlroy.

Norway have no injury worries and Leeds midfielder Eirik Bakke has shrugged off an Achilles injury.