Furious Nigel Worthington last night called on UEFA chiefs to reverse their decision forcing Northern Ireland to play their next Euro 2012 qualifier, away to Serbia, behind closed doors.

The Northern Ireland boss branded the ruling unfair to his team and their fans.

And he appealed for the March 25 game to be switched to a neutral venue, with the doors open to his Green and White Army of travelling fans.

Worthy and the supporters were stunned by UEFA’s reaction to serious rioting by Serbian supporters which forced the abandonment of their Euro qualifier in Italy earlier this month.

He believes ordering Serbia to play in an empty Belgrade stadium also penalises Northern Ireland.

“I really feel for our fans who have made their travel arrangements and will now be seriously out of pocket. I just cannot see why we should suffer because of the behaviour of another country’s fans,” Worthy rapped.

“It could also have an adverse effect on the team. It’s completely wrong and the Irish FA must strive get this outcome overturned.

“It is not right that two international sides should be playing in front of a dozen people.”

IFA chief executive Patrick Nelson last night confirmed he has been in contact with UEFA in protest at the verdict.

For the full story, see this week's Sunday Life.