IAN: I DID WELL TO TOP ROBBO
IAN BARACLOUGH admits he was “pleasantly surprised” to get the Northern Ireland job ahead of Motherwell manager Stephen Robinson.
But the 49-year-old says he would have been happy for his good pal had he landed the gig instead.
The former Fir Park gaffer was announced as Michael O’Neill’s successor four days ago on an 18-month deal.
Moving up from his role as U21 boss, Baraclough had been up against Robinson, ex-St Johnstone boss Tommy Wright, former Kilmarnock gaffer Kenny Shiels and Irish FA elite performance director Jim Magilton.
Many felt that Robinson, who has taken the Steelmen back into Europe with last season’s third-placed finish, would be offered the post.
But there was relief at Fir Park when their former boss was given a promotion.
Baraclough, who had Robinson as his No.2 at Well, said: “I tried calling Robbo. He called me back and said he couldn’t be happier for me, which was nice to hear.
“We’ve had a friendship, worked together and both of us wanted the job. If he was to get it I’d have been pleased for him and vice versa.
“I was up against a strong panel of managers and coaches who would be given respect for what they have achieved in the game. Obviously to be chosen ahead of them, I was pleasantly surprised and delighted.”
A Euro 2021 play-off clash with Bosnia and Herzegovina on October 8 and a potential November 12 decider at Windsor Park against either the Republic of Ireland or Slovakia could define his reign. And Baraclough revealed Saints midfielder Ali McCann is in his thoughts for a senior call-up, having had him in his U21s.
The Northern Ireland boss said: “He’s developed more and more and it wouldn’t surprise me if some other clubs are looking at him.
“He’s certainly one that will probably think he has a chance of finding his way into the senior team at some stage but he knows he’s up against some good senior midfielders.”
Baraclough faces a Nations League double-header in September before their Euro fate will be decided.
He has had previous success in play-offs, keeping Well up in 2015 after beating Rangers – although he was sacked four months later.
He said: “I felt we were just starting a project again in terms of having stayed in the league, starting to bring young players in.
“But obviously the powers that be at that time felt they needed a change. That’s their prerogative but I came away from Motherwell very positive about the job I’d done there.
“Robbo has taken it on now and had a fantastic run, done a great job and credit to him.
“He’s given those young players more game time and that’s borne fruit – they’re developing well.”