QUALIFICATION TOPS 100 CAPS

STEVEN DAVIS says it would be mean more to him to captain Northern Ireland at next summer’s World Cup than win 100 caps for his country.

Davis, who made his debut in 2005, marked his 96th appearance with a penalty in Friday’s crucial 3-0 win over San Marino in Serravalle.

He is set to reach the 100 mark in November if Northern Ireland secure the points they need to feature in the playoffs for Russia.

But while Davis (above) is relishing the prospect of joining legendary keeper Pat Jennings (119 caps) and Aaron Hughes (107) in Northern

Ireland’s century club, playing at World Cup is more enticing.

He said: “If we could qualify for the World Cup, that would mean more than getting 100 caps.”

Davis will take a step closer to Russia with a point against the Czech Republic tonight guaranteeing second in the group and a potential two-legged playoff before Christmas.

Michael O’neill’s men boast a seven point cushion on the Czechs with three games to play, with leaders Germany set to top the pool.

“We’re in a very good position and if you’d offered it to us at the start of the campaign, we’d have grabbed it with both hands,” said Davis.

“The ball’s in our own court. We’ve everything to play for and we’re looking forward to it. Hopefully Windsor is bouncing and we can make it a special night.”

A point is enough to secure runners-up spot, but Davis insists Northern Ireland’s mentality will be to “go for the win.

“That’s how we approach every game,” he said. “It’s going to be a very difficult game. They’re very comfortable in possession.

“They have players who want to get between lines and it will be a really good test for us. We certainly won’t be underestimating them.”