Sunday Mirror (Northern Ireland)
I could have last after betting hell
KYLE CAN CONQUER ANYTHING AFTER HIS GAMBLING PROBLEMS
GARETH McAULEY has dwelled on the possibility of tonight’s World Cup play-off being his last match for Northern Ireland.
The West Brom defender, however, insists there’s no room for introspection and all focus is upon turning around a 1-0 first-leg deficit and getting to Russia.
“I’ve never been one for sentiment, I’ll prepare for this game the same as I prepare for every game,” he said. “I’ll approach it with a little bit of nerves; it’s a big game.
“I’d have liked the missus to bring my son over for the first leg, just in case it was my last, but she didn’t because school’s more important so I might just have to play again!
“It does come into my head but honestly, I’m just preparing for the game knowing what we need to do to progress and get to the World Cup.”
Despite approaching 38, McAuley’s ruthless discipline over his fitness has kept him in an elite bracket. “I don’t like the rest,” he admits. “I wouldn’t have two days off. If I were given two days off by the club, I’d take one day and then do my own training. I like to keep myself going and moving forward.”