Northern Ireland boss O’Neill charged with drink-driving... and faces court within days of World Cup clash with Germany
NORTHERN Ireland football boss Michael O’Neill has been charged with drink driving, it has been reported.
The Ballymena man was pulled over just before 1am on Sunday on the outskirts of Edinburgh, according to the Scottish Sun.
The father-of-two was detained by police on the bypass after he allegedly failed a breath test.
Police later confirmed a 48 year-old man had been charged “in connection with drink driving”.
Northern Ireland’s next game is a home qualifier with Germany five days before O’Neill is due to appear in court.
The police spokesman said he is due to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on October 10.
Yesterday an Irish Football Association spokesman said: “We are aware of an alleged drink driving incident involving Michael O’Neill. As it is a police matter, we will be making no further comment.”
The newspaper reported that O’Neill , who signed a new £2m four-year contract with the Irish FA last year, had no comment to make.
If he is convicted, O’Neill — who has a house in Edinburgh — would likely face a driving ban and fine.
The former Hibs and Dundee United ace has been hailed a hero by Green and White Army fans after he guided them to the Euro 2016 finals in France — Northern Ireland’s first major championship in 30 years.
And the side is poised for the play-offs for the 2018 World Cup finals in Russia, after an important 2-0 win over the Czech Republic last week at Windsor Park.
It would be Northern Ireland’s first World Cup finals since 1986.
O’Neill’s side could also reach a highest-ever ranking of 20th when the new Fifa rankings are published on Thursday.