LONG: MARTIN IS MAN FOR A REVAMP

3 Bundesligas (2014, 2015, 2016); 2 Dfb-pokal German Cups (2014, 2016); 1 FIFA Club World Cup (2013); 1 UEFA Super Cup (2013)

KEVIN LONG has echoed James Mcclean’s view Martin O’neill is perfectly placed to spearhead an Ireland squad overhaul.

Burnley defender Long – in line to start his fourth Premier League game in a row against Southampton today – was one of the winners in the last World Cup campaign which ended with November’s disastrous play-off defeat to Denmark.

The Corkman, right, was thrown straight into the starting line-up for his competitive debut in the 1-1 draw against Austria last June.

O’neill has a major rebuilding job ahead for the UEFA Nations League starting in September and the Euro 2020 qualifiers next year.

However, 27-year-old Long believes the Derryman is equipped to revive a side that has lost Wes Hoolahan and Daryl Murphy, and will probably lose John O’shea, to retirement.

O’neill also nearly departed himself last month, eventually rejecting an offer to assume control at Stoke City.

“I can’t thank Martin enough for the faith he showed in me, so I’m delighted he’s staying,” said Long.

“A lot of huff was made of the Denmark game because of the scoreline but we did well in the campaign and there will be new players coming into the squad over the next few months.

“Martin isn’t afraid to put players into the team, even if they’re young.”

He added: “I hadn’t even played many games for Burnley when he gave me my first international caps last summer.

“There are plenty of players around capable of coming into the squad and they’ll have no problem once they mix well with the group.

“Every team, whether it be at club or international level, goes through periods of change like what’s ahead for us and Martin has the experience and skill to oversee that.” shock 1-0 FA Cup defeat by Wigan on Monday, which constituted a breach of FA regulations.

In December Guardiola said: “I do it because in Spain people who defend the vote, something the people in command do not agree with, are in prison. If they want to suspend me – UEFA, Premier League, FIFA – it’s OK.”

Under FA rules, Guardiola is permitted to wear the ribbon anywhere but pitchside, and the first test will come in tomorrow’s League Cup final against Arsenal at Wembley.

Guardiola has until 6pm on March 5 to respond to the charge.