After O’Neill comments should Rangers delay managerial decision?

Follow us on Google Discover

Michael O’Neill has committed himself to Northern Ireland, but could he change his mind about Rangers job if they don’t reach the World Cup?

Graeme Murty, caretaker manager of Rangers, arrives at the stadium prior to the Ladbrokes Scottish Premiership match against Celtic.

Graeme Murty’s spell as caretaker manager at Rangers started well with a 3-1 Scottish Premiership victory at Hearts and he will get another chance to impress this weekend.

Gers host Patrick Thistle in the top tier in Scotland on Saturday (November 4) before a two-week break from domestic football because of the international break.

Pedro Caixinha is seen during the Betfred League Cup Semi Final between Rangers and Motherwell.

Arguably that would be the perfect time to appoint Pedro Caixinha’s successor following the Portuguese’s sacking, giving the new man time to settle in and implement his ideas.

However, if the Glasgow club seriously consider Northern Ireland boss Michael O’Neill – who is admittedly well down the betting with Skybet currently – then perhaps they should delay the decision.

O’Neill arguably deserves his big chance in club football having achieved remarkable things against the odds on the international stage by taking the Northern Irish to Euro 2016, their first major tournament in 30 years, and could repeat that feat if they beat Switzerland over two qualifying legs to reach the World Cup next summer.

Northern Ireland manager Michael O’Neill during the FIFA 2018 World Cup Qualifier between against Germany.

His dedication to the cause lead the 48-year-old to dismiss any speculation linking with the position at Ibrox, telling Sky Sports: “It’s (speculation) constantly been there but it’s not something that I pay much attention to.

“My attention is here and trying to get my country to a World Cup finals.

“What may or may not happen after that is in the laps of the football gods, to be honest. It’s always nice to be linked with jobs but it’s not something I have given much thought to at all.”

However, should the Swiss triumph over those two matches then perhaps O’Neill would be ready for a change and his ability to achieve things against the odds could make him the perfect candidate for the job.