impress Northern Ireland boss BURNLEY striker Phil Gray aims to prove he is worth a place in Sammy McIlroy's long-term plans as Northern Ireland prepare to kick-off their World Cup campaign in Belfast tomorrow.

The 31-year-old former Luton striker is hoping to get the nod for the North's game against Malta at Windsor Park.

And, after having to drop out of the previous squad for last month's friendly against Yugoslavia with a knee injury, it's his first chance to impress new boss McIlroy.

"It's vital that I make a good impression in front of the new manager if I get my chance to play," said Gray.

"After getting a recall to the squad for the Yugoslavia game it was disappointing to then have to pull out with a knee injury.

"So this is my chance to prove I do have a place in his plans."

Gray is now fit and ready again after battling back to full fitness with the Clarets.

And he believes his move to Burnley has improved his international ambitions.

"I haven't managed to play too much so far but getting back into the First Division can only have boosted my chances," said Gray.

The North desperately want to kick-off their World Cup campaign with maximum points against Malta.

And Gray is confident the squad can successfully complete the job.

"The atmosphere and attitude amongst the lads is superb so we are all feeling confident," said Gray.

"It's vitally important we get off to a good start which will then set us up for the rest of the campaign.

"The lads beat them 3-0 in friendly over the summer so we would happily settle for a repeat of that."

Several members of the Burnley side, including captain Steve Davis and winger Glen Little, will be appearing at the Alliance and Leicester Building Society on St James's Street from 12 noon on Saturday.

They will be available for autographs for about one hour and a half.