Reign is over for Northern Ireland boss

MICHAEL O’neill has stepped down as Northern Ireland manager after eight-and-a-half years in the role.

O’neill, who was appointed Stoke manager in November, had been due to take charge of Northern Ireland’s Euro 2020 qualifying play-offs before leaving the national team, but a proposed revisal of the international match schedule due to the coronavirus pandemic has led to his early exit.

“After careful consideration and following discussions with the Irish FA I feel it is only fair that now is the right time for me to step aside,” O’neill said.

“I would have loved the opportunity to manage Northern Ireland in the UEFA 2020 play-off game versus Bosnia and Herzegovina and the chance to qualify for another major tournament, but the current situation means that this is no longer possible.”

The announcement brings to an end a hugely successful spell in charge for O’neill, highlighted by the Green and White Army’s trip to Euro 2016 - their first appearance at a major tournament since the 1986 World Cup.

Appointed in December 2011, O’neill had a win rate of 36 per cent in his 72 games in charge, and won 18 of the 48 competitive matches he oversaw for Northern Ireland.

Irish FA chief executive Patrick Nelson said: “It is within a unique set of circumstances that we bring our unforgettable chapter with Michael O’neill to a close.

“His time as manager will be remembered as some of the headiest for our fans and most successful for our players.”