BOLTON'S Gerry Taggart looks set to lead his country into battle with Germany tomorrow after a stirring tribute from his national boss.

Wanderers powerhouse centre half is back in favour with Northern Ireland after his frustrating first season at Burnden Park cost him his international place.

And, according to Irish boss Bryan Hamilton, a return to the green No 5 shirt may only be the start of a future success story for the Belfast-born 26-year-old.

"I believe Taggs has got what it takes to go to the very top," he says.

Taggart's central defensive partnership with Chris Fairclough has been a key factor in providing the foundation for Wanderers to build the strongest possible challenge for promotion back to the Premiership.

And he appears certain to get the chance to continue his outstanding form in the green shirt of his country after missing out on the first two World Cup qualifying matches against the Ukraine and Armenia.

He was originally omitted from the squad for the opening game and then injury robbed him of the chance to replace Barry Hunter when the Reading defender was forced out of manager Bryan Hamilton's plans through injury.

And Taggart's frustrations continued when he only got as far as the substitutes' bench in the second match.

But the former Irish captain is expected to go one better and add to his 35 caps tomorrow in the Nuremberg clash which should see him line up against German legend Jurgen Klinsman for the first time in his career.

Hamilton has closely monitored Taggart's progress since he arrived at Burnden Park for £1.5million just before the start of last season - and he has liked what he has seen this term.

"I have seen him play this season and I have been mightily impressed," he admitted. "It's good to see him back doing so well and great to have him back in the squad."

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