Chris Brunt recalled to Northern Ireland squad

Chris Brunt has been handed a recall to the Northern Ireland squad after recovering from a serious knee injury.

The West Bromwich Albion player was forced to miss Euro 2016 after sustaining the problem in a Premier League fixture with Crystal Palace in February.

However, Brunt - who can play at left-back or in midfield - made three appearances for the Baggies during October and he has been rewarded with an immediate return to the international setup by boss Michael O'Neill.

Striker Will Grigg has also been given a place in the 25-man squad for the World Cup qualifier with Azerbaijan after missing the previous two matches because of family reasons.

Northern Ireland are also scheduled to play a friendly against Croatia during the upcoming international schedule.

Full squad:

Goalkeepers: McGovern, Mannus, Carson

Defenders: McAuley, Evans, Hughes, Brunt, McLaughlin, Hodson, McGivern, Flanagan

Midfielders: Davis, McGinn, Norwood, Evans, Ward, Ferguson, Dallas, McNair, Lund, Paton

Forwards: Lafferty, Washington, Grigg, Magennis