Chris Baird lends support to Nigel Worthington

Northern Ireland defender Chris Baird has defended under-pressure manager Nigel Worthington.

A number of supporters called for the former Norwich City boss to resign from his position after last month's 4-1 defeat to Estonia in Tallinn, a result which realistically ended the nation's hopes of qualifying for next summer's European Championships.

However, Fulham's Baird has revealed that he and a number of the current squad are fully behind Worthington.

"A lot of guys have said they back Nigel and I'm one of them," Baird told Press Association Sport. "He has been fantastic for us.

"He has been great for our country and great for the players who have worked under him.

"He has everyone's respect, he's a good coach and I back him."

Worthington took over as Northern Ireland boss in 2007.