Craig Cathcart, Liam Boyce out of Northern Ireland squad

Craig Cathcart of Northern Ireland holds off David Cotterill of Wales during the international friendly match on March 24, 2016
© Getty Images
Craig Cathcart joins Liam Boyce in being ruled out of Northern Ireland's upcoming World Cup qualifiers against San Marino and Germany.

Craig Cathcart has been ruled out of Northern Ireland's upcoming World Cup qualifiers against San Marino and Germany.

The Watford defender has been forced out of the squad by a groin injury, prompting manager Michael O'Neill to call up veteran Aaron Hughes.

Cathcart also missed his nation's opening qualifier last month when they earned a goalless draw in the Czech Republic.

Other absences include striker Liam Boyce, who sustained a knee injury in Ross County's defeat by St Johnstone, and Wigan Athletic striker Will Grigg, out for family reasons.

Northern Ireland are at home to San Marino on Saturday before Tuesday's game against Group C favourites Germany in Hanover.

Michael O'Neill during the Euro 2016 Group C match between Ukraine and Northern Ireland on July 16, 2016
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