The president of the Irish Football Association, Raymond Kennedy, has lauded manager Nigel Worthington for encouraging a willing work ethic among the players.

Northern Ireland have now won four successive qualifiers for the first time.

Even when they reached the World Cup finals in 1958, 1982 and 1986, they never showed that kind of consistency.

Kennedy said: "To make history like this is a tremendous achievement and Nigel deserves praise.

"What I like about him is that he is a realist. He wants everyone to work hard and play as a team. He preaches this all the time and that's what they are doing.

"We do not have any prima donnas in the squad. Every player is a grafter, no matter which club they play for.

"I am very happy with the way things are going under Nigel and thoroughly enjoying the ride."

With three matches remaining, Northern Ireland's next qualifier is not until September when they travel to Poland, who were beaten 3-2 in Belfast on Saturday.

Should they end a poor run of results away from home the dream will come closer to reality.

Apart from the glory of appearing on the world stage with some of football's greatest names, the IFA would also be set for a windfall.

That is something Kennedy acknowledges.

"For a small nation like us qualifying for major finals is a lifeline," he said.

"It would be excellent if we could achieve our goal as it would set us up for years. I know everyone is going to give it a real go and try and make it to South Africa."