2010 WORLD CUP QUALIFYING GROUP THREE Poland v Northern Ireland: RANGERS MIDFIELDER Steven Davis is pushing for a return to the Northern Ireland side today when they face Poland in a vital World Cup qualifier.

Davis found himself on the bench in the recent 1-1 draw in a warm-up game against Israel in Belfast. However, he could force manager Nigel Worthington into a rethink as his early season form is winning plaudits at Ibrox.

Davis ran the show from a central midfield role in the victory against Hamilton at the weekend and earned praise from the backroom team for his unselfish work.

Assistant manager Ally McCoist said: “There might be a bit of truth in the fact he misses out on recognition.

“But we certainly appreciate him as coaches. He maybe goes unnoticed but as a staff we are very pleased with him.”

Davis sealed a permanent move to Rangers in August 2008 and signed a four-year contract after arriving from Fulham following a loan spell.

Former Scotland striker McCoist added: “I thought he was outstanding against Hamilton.

“His energy levels were fantastic and his passing and movement were superb. He had a hand in three of the goals as well. He was terrific.”

Northern Ireland are facing a critical phase in their campaign after a poor start.

They could go top of Group Three in Chorzow if they achieve a fifth successive competitive victory and Slovakia lose at home to the Czech Republic.

They then face Slovakia at Windsor Park next Wednesday in their penultimate qualifier.

Worthington said: “If we can come away from Poland with something from the game that will put us in good heart on our return to Belfast. That’s the aim.”

As Northern Ireland finalise their preparations for the match Jonny Evans’ fitness will be closely monitored.

The Manchester United defender is training with the squad after being troubled with an ankle problem and sat out the victory against Arsenal at the weekend.

Full back Ryan McGivern, who secured a loan move to Leicester from Manchester City this week, is also in the group even though he was eligible for the Under-21s European Championship qualifier against the Czech Republic.

Manager Steve Beaglehole said: “Ryan has moved up, as has Andrew Little, and that is fair enough as we are also fast-tracking some players.”

Worthington has suffered two withdrawals ahead of the game against Poland with West Brom midfielder Chris Brunt and Rangers striker Andrew Little sidelined through injury.

However, the fitness of both players will be accessed later in the week with Slovakia the visitors at Windsor Park on Wednesday.

Northern Ireland are looking to complete the double over Poland and Worthington added: “They are a very good side and we have very much respect for them.

“But we have been very focused on what we need to do. If we go and perform as we can, we are very capable of getting a good result.”