NORTHERN Ireland's manager, Bryan Hamilton, is likely to keep faith with Blackpool striker James' Quinn against Belgium in tonight's friendly in Belfast.

Quinn, who proved an outstanding success in last month's game with Italy in Palermo, has again impressed in training.

He is now the main challenger to Iain Dowie of West Ham, who is recovering from a broken ankle, but should be available for the March 28th World Cup tie against Portugal in Belfast.

West Ham's Michael Hughes is also ruled out - with a back injury - which means that Jon McCarthy of Port Vale is almost certain to come in on the left flank.

Hamilton, who put his 18 man squad through two training sessions, including one at Windsor Park won't name his line up until shortly before the 7 p.m. kick off.

Newcastle winger Keith Gillespie, who withdrew from the Italian match because of a groin strain returns while Manchester City could provide four members - goalkeeper Tommy Wright and midfielders Steve Lomas, Jeff Whitley and Kevin Horlock.

Whitley, born in Zambia - his father was a Belfast engineer, would become the first black player to represent Northern Ireland at senior international level.

Whitley, also eligible for Zambia and England, was on the bench in Italy but never got a call up. Hamilton may also include Manchester United forward Philip Mulryne, Stoke striker Gerard McMahon and St Johnstone's George O'Boyle.

"This is an important game for us in many respects," said Hamilton "It provides us with yet another opportunity of working together and providing vital experience for young players. Belgium no doubt should be formidable opposition.