Northern Ireland manager Nigel Worthington has not ruled out the possibility of Steve Lomas returning to the squad after a four-year absence.

Worthington believes the experienced midfielder can still do a job at international level - but he needs to find a club sooner rather than later.

Lomas, 33, is a free agent after leaving Coca-Cola Championship side QPR in the summer and won the last of his 44 caps in 2003.

Worthington is monitoring the player's situation ahead of his first match in charge - the Euro 2008 qualifier against Liechtenstein on August 22nd at Windsor Park.

The former Norwich boss, however, was impressed at the way Lomas performed in the recent friendly between a Northern Ireland select side and Everton.

"He was desperate to play in that game," said Worthington. "That was great for me and Roy Millar, who was in charge, to have someone of Steve's experience to call on.

"Perhaps Steve might be in the twilight of his career but I have a lot of time for him as he is a good professional.

"If he gets a club, has a good pre-season, gets fits and does well he will be in the hat."

Worthington was also impressed with uncapped Falkirk defender Dean Holden's display against Everton.

Holden was brought up in Manchester but qualifies for Northern Ireland through his grandparents.

"Dean is new on the scene and had a good steady game against Everton," said the former Sheffield Wednesday defender. "I know of his desire and enthusiasm to be in the squad and push his way into the team.

"As a manager that is the kind of situation you want. The door is not shut on anyone."