Nigel Worthington insists Northern Ireland need a new national stadium. The country's new manager believes Windsor Park is no longer suitable for international football but does not want the Irish Football Association to host games overseas.
"It's a no-brainer - we need a new stadium. I've no preference where it should be but we need it," Worthington told the Belfast Telegraph. "The last thing players, managers, fans and the media want is Northern Ireland to play outside Northern Ireland.
"Windsor Park has been tremendous for Northern Ireland football but we need a new stadium. It's got to be done yesterday as opposed to tomorrow. We need adequate facilities for men, women and children. Somewhere where families can be entertained in a healthy environment."
The IFA is "actively pursuing" the option of playing two friendlies overseas.
"The IFA can barely sustain international football on current attendance levels of 13,000 plus," said chief executive Howard Wells, who believes playing games outside the country next February and March would generate additional revenue.
There are plans for a 35,000-seat ground at the Maze, near Lisburn but there are calls for the new venue to be built in Belfast. The final decision is expected to take place in the autumn.
