International Blues - Joy For Taylor

Last updated : 06 September 2006 By Brian Cartlidge

Denmark: Nicklas Bendtner

Niklas Bendtner, who has scored twice in first two games at full international level, was named as a substitute for Denmark's Euro 2008 Group F qualifier in Iceland.

The 18-year-old on-loan Blues striker played no part as the Dane's ran-out comfortable 2-0 winners courtesy of first half goals from Denis Rommedahl and Jon Dahl Tomasson.




Northern Ireland: Maik Taylor


In the same group, Maik Taylor was also named as a substitute for Northern Irelands qualifier against Spain in Belfast.

However, the Blues keeper was called into action just 12 minutes into the game at Windsor Park after Roy Carroll sustained a groin injury.

Lawrie Sanchez's side were a goal behind just two minutes after Taylor's introduction but Leeds striker David Healy equalised for the host's on 20 minutes.

David Villa put the visitors 2-1 ahead seven minutes into the second half before Healy bagged his second of the night on 64 minutes.

Healy went on to his complete his trick on 80 minutes to give the Irish a 3-2 lead and ultimately a tremendous first-ever home win against the Spaniards.



Finland: Mikael Forssell

Blues striker Mikael Forssell was an unused substitute for Finland in their 1-1 draw against Portugal in their Group A qualifier in Helsinki.

The hosts took the lead on 21 minutes but Nuno Gomes equalised four minutes before half-time for the World Cup semi-finalists.



England Under 21: Cameron Jerome

Blues striker Cameron Jerome was also named among the substitute's for the England Under 21 side in their 3-2 win against Switzerland in Lucerne.

Goalscorers for Peter Taylors side were Theo Walcott, David Nugent and James Milner.

Jerome played the final 21 minutes of the game which booked England a place in the play-offs for the UEFA European U21s Championship.