Nigel Worthington has warned David Healy that he must leave Scottish champions Rangers if he wants to remain with the Northern Ireland setup.
The 31-year old is the all-time leading scorer for the nation but has been left out of this week's Carling Nations Cup double header because he has not been playing regularly enough.
And Worthington feels it would be wise if Healy left Ibrox in the summer even though he only arrived in January from Sunderland.
"I don't think that signing for Rangers would be good for him," he said.
"David must be playing regularly for his next club. That is vital if he hopes to carry on his international career.
"He has had a tough time over the last three years in terms of playing and performances.
"I've been very fair with my selection. Because you've done something, it doesn't mean you're always going to do it.
"It hasn't happened for him, but I hope he gets playing and gets sharper. If things are right, David will be selected. If not, I'm afraid he will be omitted from the group.
"He hasn't scored for the international team for three years and, obviously, that can't continue."
