TAYLOR DESPERATE TO BE BLUES NO1

NORTHERN IRELAND keeper Maik Taylor reckons the game against Serbia on Saturday is the perfect opportunity to help him regain his place for Birmingham City.

Ousted for now by Joe Hart at City, Taylor says he is up for the battle and proved his ability by keeping a clean sheet against Manchester City last week when Hart was ineligible.

"I have never shirked a challenge and I don't intend to start now," said Taylor, who hopes to win his 82nd cap in the friendly against the Serbs at Windsor park on Saturday.

Taylor is just one of several Northern Ireland stars who find themselves on the bench at club level.

"It is frustrating for the players and for Nigel Worthington because he needs us all playing regular first-team football," said Taylor.

However, the keeper fully expects to be Northern Ireland's No1 when the Euro 2012 qualifiers start in September and hasn't even ruled out performing in another World Cup qualifying campaign - even though he will be 40.

Taylor proved during Northern Ireland's World Cup qualifiers that he is still an outstanding goalkeeper.

Only Patrick Thistle's Jonny Tuffey and Shamrock Rovers' Alan Mannus are serious contenders for Taylor's position.

Taylor added: "All I want to do is play football - whether it's for my club or country. I enjoy pulling on the jersey and go out trying to win the game.

"As long as I keep myself in shape and keep on enjoying training, then I see no reason why I should give up something I really enjoy doing.

"I never want to have any regrets in football - so I'll keep on playing for as long as possible."

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