Worthington’s woe is compounded by finale: Italy 3 Northern Ireland 0

Nigel Worthington’s tenure as Northern Ireland manager ended in more disappointment as his side were comfortably beaten by an Italy side inspired by the finishing of Antonio Cassano.Worthington was forced to send out a youthful side due to a series of withdrawals that left him two substitutes short and Cassano took full advantage, producing two wonderful goals to finish the campaign with six.

The Group C winners’ third left a sour taste for another departing Northern Irishman, as veteran goalkeeper Maik Taylor’s misunderstanding with Gareth McAuley resulted in a demoralising own-goal.

Worthington has been hampered throughout qualification by injuries and suspensions, so it seemed cruelly fitting that his final match came with his resources stretched even further than ever.

A total of 10 players originally picked for his 23-man squad were missing in Pescara – Craig Cathcart’s knee giving way yesterday morning as he joined a list of absentees including Aaron Hughes, Jonny Evans, Chris Brunt and Kyle Lafferty.

In their place, Worthington promoted a host of young players in the shape of Ryan McGivern, Oliver Norwood, Andrew Little and Jonny Gorman.

At the other end of the spectrum, 40-year-old Taylor was handed the captaincy on what will surely be a farewell appearance and David Healy equalled Mal Donaghy’s outfield record with a 91st cap.

Italy led after Daniele De Rossi lofted a delightful through ball for Cassano to volley home. On 53 minutes Cassano scored again with a precision strike from 20 yards and McAuley unfortunately bundled in the third.