Worthington considers future

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A goal from the influential Xavi in the 53rd minute gave Spain - who had already qualified - a narrow 1-0 victory, while Sweden did what they had to do and beat Latvia to secure the other spot, leaving Worthington pondering his own personal agenda.

The former Norwich boss has indicated he would be interested in becoming manager on a permanent basis after he succeeded Lawrie Sanchez halfway through the campaign, saying: "It is not a case of walking away, it is a case of things being right for Nigel Worthington and everyone involved. I have enjoyed the experience but it remains to be seen what happens."

He added: "I think the players and I have bonded and been pleased to be in each other's company. You can see that on the pitch which is the important thing.

"We have worked hard and had fun, but what we've shown over the last three games - it was absolutely magnificent. The team have grown together and I've been thrilled with the campaign."

Northern Ireland were grateful to the oldest man in the team, 36-year-old goalkeeper Maik Taylor for keeping them in the game. He made a string of superb saves in the first half before Xavi broke the deadlock with his 25-yard effort taking a deflection off defender Stephen Craigan.

It left Taylor wrong-footed and after that they were left facing an uphill task.

Worthington said: "Stephen's tried to get his head on the ball and it's gone the other way. It was a cruel blow but that's part and parcel of the game.

"But no matter which way you look at it, it was a gutsy performance. We didn't have a lot of possession but our character was magnificent.

"I'm very proud of the team - to lose 1-0 against a side like Spain is no disgrace. They know they've been in a fight. We can hold our heads up high."