Northern Ireland boss Michael O'Neill has insisted that New York Red Bulls midfielder Jonny Steele is in his plans.

However, O'Neill admits that Steele's club commitments mean that it is unlikely he will be selected for next month's World Cup qualifier against Russia.

"I'm sure he will get his chance soon. [But] He has a game for New York Red Bulls on the Sunday [before the Russia game] so that wouldn't be ideal," O'Neill told reporters at a press conference.

"I'll look at it in the cold light of day. Jonny Steele is a player who is knocking on the door. I have people watching the games in the America and I have the ability to watch the games [on television] as well, so he is somebody that I will continue to monitor."

Steele plays alongside Thierry Henry and Tim Cahill for his club side.