BARACLOUGH ACCEPTS NORTHERN IRISH OFFER

FORMER Motherwell boss Ian Baraclough has taken over from Michael O’Neill as manager of Northern Ireland.

Baraclough signed an 18-month deal last night and pipped current Fir Park boss Stephen Robinson to the job.

Former St Johnstone manager Tommy Wright was also understood to be considered for the role.

Baraclough had been in charge of Northern Ireland’s Under-21s for three years. His first matches in charge will be two UEFA Nations League fixtures in September, followed by the Euro 2020 play-off away to Bosnia & Herzegovina in October.

‘I was delighted to be linked with the job, said the 49-year-old. ‘To ultimately accept the role as the new Northern Ireland manager is an honour and a privilege.

‘I could not be more energised and excited to get going.’

Irish FA president David Martin added: ‘On behalf of everyone connected to the Irish FA, we wish Ian the warmest of welcomes and look forward to him being a key part of the team.’