IFA chiefs are considering a 10 day end of season trip to the Far East – to compete in the Kirin Cup. The three nation bi-annual event, promoted by a Japanese brewery, attracts capacity crowds.

Previously matches have been played in Tokyo and Kobe and this time Hong Kong is another possible venue.

Scotland are past winners, having beaten Bulgaria 5-1 in the final when Japan were also involved.

IFA president Raymond Kennedy confirmed: “This is one of the proposals in the pipeline

The big stumbling block however could be the attitude of the players.

After a long hard season the majority might not be in favour of travelling half way across the world.

For some it could even mean forgoing a family holiday.

And without the nucleus of the current World Cup squad it could become mission impossible.

The alternative for some could be more relaxing club tours ending with a family break.

Northern Ireland have toured in Canada, Australia and the Caribbean in the past and none proved to be financial bonanzas.

lNIGEL Worthington is studying two DVDs featuring a player from Australia who has declared an interest in playing for Northern Ireland.

Terry McFlynn, a midfielder, stars for FC Sydney after being signed by former German star Pierre Litbarski.

Worthy says: “I’m in the process of watching the videos and until I study them more thoroughly I think that’s all I should say.”

lROY CARROLL’S international future would appear to be over despite offering his services again.

The Derby County goalkeeper has had second thoughts about not wanting to be involved unless he was first choice.

But Northern Ireland boss Nigel Worthington is sticking with reliable trio Maik Taylor of Birmingham, Linfield’s Alan Mannus and Jonathan Tuffey of Partick Thistle.

Worthy said: “Roy has indicated that

if and when the opportunity is there he’d like to come back.

“But while people might pick their time to step out of the squad, I will pick the time for people to step back into the squad and that’s only when I feel it is right, first and foremost for us.

“I feel I have to be loyal to the lads who stayed with us.”

lNORTHERN Ireland are bracing themselves for another player tug-o-war - this time with the English FA for Chelsea defender Carl Magnay.

The Stamford Bridge youngster has declared an interest in playing for Nigel Worthington and has been named in the Under 21 squad for a game against Scotland in New Douglas Park, Hamilton on November 18.

Magnay was born in England but has a Northern Ireland grandparent.

But while Magnay can play for Northern Ireland in friendly matches, England would still have a claim until he features in a competitive game.