West Bromwich Albion are reportedly looking at Northern Ireland coach Michael O’Neill.
Michael O’Neill has admitted to Sky Sports that he is flattered to be linked with the vacant managerial role at West Bromwich Albion.
The Baggies are looking for a full-time boss to replace Darren Moore after last week’s Championship play-off semi final defeat to neighbours Aston Villa.
And O’Neill, who has made his name as the manager of Northern Ireland, has emerged as a potential option according to the Express and Star.
The 49-year-old has coached his country for the last eight years, turning them from minnows into hard-working, well-drilled underdogs. O’Neill led Northern Ireland to Euro 2016, their first major tournament in three decades, and signed a new deal until 2024 last year despite missing out on the Russian World Cup.
And while admitting that the West Brom job may be tempting, O’Neill has made it clear that he is not looking to leave his current post right now.
“It’s always nice to be linked with other vacancies, and I’m sure there’s a number of managers that West Brom are looking to speak to; they’re a club with a lot of potential,” O’Neill said, announcing his intention to stay and leave the country to Euro 2020.
“(But) when you’re managing your home country it’s a difficult situation to leave that job.
“I have a lot of stability in my job, I have a good relationship with the IFA (Irish Football Association), there’s a lot of transparency there. I signed a long-term contract as well which was important for both parties.”
As it stands, Northern Ireland have won their opening two European Championship qualifiers and are well placed to reach the tournament next summer.
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