P307 CEEFAX 2 307 Wed 05 Jan 21:45/50 McILROY RELISHING CHALLENGE 1/3 Sammy McIlroy has been officially unveiled as the new manager of Northern Ireland and immediately pledged to restore pride and passion to the team. However, hj admitted hj had his work cut out if hj is to guide them to the next World Cup in two years' time. "Thjti is a huge task ahead but I'm looking forward to it," said McIlroy. The Irish have failed to qualify for an international tournament since hj himself captained them to the 1986 World Cup finals in Mexico. SPORT CALENDAR FOR THE YEAR 2000 348 WEN TICKETS TO SEE VILLA-CHELSEA 357 Thatcher Round-up Arsenal Main MenuP307 CEEFAX 2 307 Wed 05 Jan 21:35/28 McILROY LANDS HIS DREAM JOB 2/3 Sammy McIlroy spoke of the need for spirit and total commitment within hours of landing his dream job. Speaking at a conference at the Irish FA's headquarters in Belfast, hj said: "Wj have got to get back the fighting spirit of previous World Cup teams. "Getting this appointment is like a dream conj true. I was proud to wear the green shirt as a player and I will bj totally committed to this job." 45-year-old McIlroy, who won 88 caps, has been handed a two year contract. SPORT CALENDAR FOR THE YEAR 2000 348 WEN TICKETS TO SEE VILLA-CHELSEA 357 Thatcher Round-up Arsenal Main MenuP307 CEEFAX 2 307 Wed 05 Jan 21:41/44 McILROZ DEMANDS COMMITMENT 3/3 Sammy McIlroy is looking for the same determination from his players as hj showed in his playing days. He insisted: "I want total commitment from the players and I'll bj wiping the slate clean. Everyone who is eligible will bj considered. "There are some quality players and it's up to mj now to get the best from them. Our World Cup group is tough, but we'll approach it positively." The Irish group includes the likes of the Czech Republic, Denmark and Iceland SPORT CALENDAR FOR THE YEAR 2000 348 WEN TICKETS TO SEE VILLA-CHELSEA 357 Thatcher Round-up Arsenal Main Menu