West Ham defender George McCartney knows not everyone will welcome him back to the Northern Ireland squad.

McCartney has been recalled by Nigel Worthington after a two-year absence caused by the player's disagreement with previous boss Lawrie Sanchez.

"Some will welcome me back and others will be a bit hesitant," he said.

"But I hope by the time of the Liechtenstein game, the fans will push everyone on towards qualifying."

"I have always wanted to play for Northern Ireland," he told BBC Radio Ulster.

"But there were some strange goings-on with Lawrie that kept me from playing for my country.

"I have always been proud to put on the shirt."