World Cup windfall would be used to develop game

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The IFA would be hopeful of taking that to the £12m mark through sponsorship, merchandising, shirt sales, television revenue and gate receipts from glamour friendlies that could be arranged on the back of World Cup qualification.

For the last World Cup in Brazil in 2014, Fifa made a profit of £2.1bn. They believe they will improve on that in Russia, so it is little wonder they can increase the prize money.

Three years ago, Germany, who topped Northern Ireland’s qualifying group, landed $35m for winning the competition in Rio. Some are estimating that the victors this time could end up with close to $50m.

So, if Northern Ireland win their play-off and qualify for the 2018 finals, what will the IFA do with all the money they receive from it?

If the Euro 2016 cash is anything to go by it will be split three ways, with around a third going towards paying for the likes of chartered flights, top class accommodation and the best food and facilities; another third being used for bonus payments to players, backroom staff and medical personnel; and the rest going to the IFA’s legacy projects.

Any player involved in the qualifying campaign could expect a bonus payment, though for the World Cup it is thought fees would be proportional depending on games played.

It is understood that manager Michael O’Neill would be in line to receive a separate bonus to the players if he is able to inspire the team to a rare appearance at a World Cup.

Earlier this year at the IFA’s annual general meeting at the Armagh City Hotel, there was much satisfaction amongst Board members when it was revealed the Association made a profit of £3.7m, most of that courtesy of the Euro finals in France.

Around £1.5m was awarded to the IFA Foundation, a new charitable arm chaired by former IFA President Jim Shaw with the aim of delivering football development work and to further equip the IFA to grow the game in Northern Ireland.