Sad day for O’Neill as NI football manager attends mum’s funeral

THE funeral of the mother of Northern Ireland football manager Michael O’Neill takes place this morning in Ballymena.

Patricia O’Neill (nee McAleese) died peacefully after a long illness at Antrim Area Hospital on Sunday surrounded by her family.

A family notice said she was: “Sadly missed, always remembered by her sorrowing husband, family and family circle.”

Described as the “much-loved wife of Des”, the notice added she was the “loving mother” of Sean, Una, Maura, Michael and Orla and a “devoted nanny” to her 10 grandchildren.

A Requiem Mass will be held at 10am today at All Saints’ Church followed by interment at Ballywillan Cemetery in Porhim

In mourning: Michael O’Neill

trush at around 1.30pm. Family friends are welcome to call from 4pm to 9pm.

Mrs O’Neill’s passing comes as her football manager son is at the centre of a bidding war from other sides including the Scottish national team and West Bromwich Albion, while the Irish Football Association have offered a four-year extension to his existing contract.

His parents have always been outspoken in their support for his sporting achievements.

Des O’Neill once commented: “Both his mother and I are really delighted that he has been so hugely successful as a manager. I don’t think we could feel any prouder,” he added.

Mr O’Neill sr suffered a heart attack earlier this year but has since made a full recovery.

When Michael O’Neill was given an honorary degree in Coleraine from Ulster University this year, his mother’s illness prevented her from attending the special day.

“This would have been a very proud day for her,” he told the students at the time.

“She always would have liked a priest in the family. Now she has a doctor!”