KNOCK-ON EFFECT

Austin Macphee’s exploits with the currently all-conquering Northern Ireland are helping shake off the impression he is a novice. Aged just 37, the Hearts assistant manager is often placed in the same category as Ian Cathro, erstwhile head coach at Tynecastle.

But, as he prepares to clock in forworkwithnewheartshead coach Craig Levein tomorrow, Macphee is nearing his 400th match in the dugout. He has worked in every league in Scotland with Cowdenbeath, St Mirren and now Hearts and with players from every league in England while with Northern Ireland.

In addition, together with a Northern Irish team that seems to be getting better and better, he’s been to the knockout stage of the European Championships and is edging closer to the World Cup. Yet he’s still looked upon as inexperienced because he is young and has long hair.

Macphee began working with Northern Ireland four yearsagoonasouthamerican tour. The trip had appeared a thankless one.

Manager Michael O’neill was trying to lift spirits after a World Cup qualifying campaign in which Northern Ireland lost to Luxembourg and finished fifth in their group. They were ranked around 100 in the world at the time.

O’neill’s alchemy in overseeing

“Hopefully the Hearts supporters trust me, Aaron, Kyle and Michael a little more”

AUSTIN MACPHEE