Northern Ireland striker Liam Boyce has been ruled out of tomorrow's World Cup qualifier with Italy.
It has been confirmed that Boyce will not travel with the squad to Parma.
The 29-year-old played for Hearts in the Scottish Cup last night and his wife has just given birth to the couple's second child.
Another absentee is young Derry City goalkeeper Nathan Gartside who has stayed at his club to get a medical issue looked at.
“Nathan Gartside has got a medical issue that needs sorted and he won’t be travelling to Italy," NI manager Ian Baraclough said.
“That’s the very reason why we brought Liam Hughes into the group.
“On Liam Boyce, I’ve allowed him to play for Hearts last night. He’s close to home and close to his wife who has just given birth.”
Meanwhile, Baraclough also revealed that a decision on Newcastle United defender Jamal Lewis for the clash against the Azzurri will be made later.
Lewis is continuing to recover from a groin problem and is rated doubtful for the opening World Cup qualifier.
