STEVE Jones is desperate to win over Lawrie Sanchez and reclaim his spot for Northern Ireland's crunch Euro 2008 clash against Spain tonight.

The Burnley striker was an unused substitute on Saturday as Sanchez's side were crushed 3-0 at home to Iceland.

Fellow Clarets team-mates Michael Duff and Kyle Lafferty also made the bench, but both were given the second-half nod as Jones was left kicking his heels in frustration.

Speed ace Jones, 29, believes his pace could have proved a major asset against the tall, organised Icelanders.

"Disappointing is the word," said Jones. "I thought I had done enough in the last few games to come on at some stage, but it was not to be.

"I thought we needed pace against Iceland's height, because height against height was not working.

"Iceland were a big strong team. A lot of chances were created, but they put their's away and we didn't.

"I would love to play against Spain. I've just got to get my head up, keep working hard and hopefully the manager will change his mind."

In a reversal of fortunes, Burnley's threesome could well make the starting line-up as Sanchez has indicated he will make changes.

Captain and centre-back Aaron Hughes is passed fit to play despite needing six stitches to a head wound on Saturday.

But defender Duff is in contention for a place with left-back Toni Capaldi under pressure.

Lafferty is also being tipped for a starting role in place of veteran striker James Quinn.

The 18-year-old made his competitive international debut at Windsor Park four days ago and, following his bright cameo appearance, will hope to team up alongside David Healy, Northern Ireland's all-time record scorer.

Jones - who gave Lafferty a pat on the back before the teenager made his grand entrance - reckons his young team-mate has a bright Northern Ireland future and believes he can step into Quinn's shoes.

Jones said: "I just wished Kyle all the best. It was a big occasion for him on his home patch, so it was nice to see him go on.

"My home debut was against Spain in a qualifier a few years back. It was 0-0 and I was absolutely delighted with it.

"Kyle comes across as not being nervous. But I'm sure he was a little. You are always nervous about your debut, especially at home.

"It was not easy for him coming on, especially playing wide on the left. It's not his position really, but he did well on the ball. He never gave it away."

Jones added: "We've not got many big strikers. That helps and the Northern Ireland fans like to see a big targetman up there. So hopefully he will come along nicely.

"He's quite similar to James, the height comparison is there. So hopefully he can work on his weight and he will do well.

"He's done some weights over the summer, so hopefully that will continue and I'm sure his body weight will get bigger in the future."