North's Davis demands focus

NORTHERN IRELAND captain Steven Davis has warned his side against "taking liberties" when they face Azerbaijan tonight, but admits only victory will do.

The Southampton midfielder will lead his side out at Windsor Park looking for a first win in World Cup qualifying at the fourth attempt.

Defeat in Russia and a home draw against Luxembourg represented a modest start to the North's Group F campaign, but things picked up in unexpected fashion when Michael O'Neill's side claimed a surprise draw in Portugal last month.

Three points against Berti Vogts' Azerbaijan side would leave them in good spirits heading into the new year, but while Davis is clear about his expectations, he does not advocate over-confidence.

"We know what we are capable of and we are confident of three points," said Davis.

"But as always, we can't take liberties. We have to give 100pc to get a result."