BBC · Mar 16
Ballard included in NI squad as Morrison called up
Image caption, Dan Ballard was forced off with a hamstring concern in the second half of Sunderland's defeat by Brighton on SaturdaySunderland defender Dan Ballard has been included in Northern Ireland's squad for the World Cup play-off semi-final in Italy despite a hamstring issue.
Ballard, 26, was forced off in the second half of the Premier League defeat by Brighton on Saturday.
Northern Ireland boss Michael O'Neill, who is also managing Blackburn Rovers for the remainder of the season, is boosted by the return of the Charles brothers, goalkeeper Pierce and midfielder Shea, in his extended 28-man squad.