My goal was to get back into the squad after missing the summer tour and I'd like to get back into the team and show Frank Hadden that I'm ready again for the job.

BBC: SPORT | Rugby Union | Scottish | Chris Cusiter column

Northern Ireland's record goal scorer Healy was left out of the squad for the game against Morocco in November for the first time since his debut in 2000.

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However, he was unable to achieve his goal of being selected in the All Blacks squad for the 2007 World Cup in France, having suffered a shoulder injury.

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City boss Roberto Mancini, beaten 1-0 by Arsenal on Sunday, gave Carlos Tevez his first start since returning to the squad after a three-month absence and the striker rewarded him with a goal.

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That has to be their goal and it represents a fair amount of pressure for Tony and his squad under the scrutiny of their own press and fans.

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We had the largest squad in the division and we believed we had the manager and players to achieve our goal.

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The 22-year-old Flood, who will provide England with another goal-kicking option, was unlucky to miss out on the original 30-man World Cup squad.

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Leicester, who made significant changes to their side because of injury and enforced resting of England Elite Player Squad members, were already showing signs of panic under pressure, gifting Hougaard another long-range shot at goal from 55 yards which sailed between the posts.

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