Skip to content

Michael O'Neill yet to commit long-term future to Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill applauds the fans after the UEFA European Championship Qualifying match at Windsor Park, Belfast.
Image: Michael O'Neill's Northern Ireland qualified top of Group F with a 1-1 draw away at Finland on Sunday

Northern Ireland have not received any approach for manager Michael O'Neill, according to the Irish FA president Jim Shaw.

O'Neill successfully guided Northern Ireland to qualification for Euro 2016 - the country's first major tournament since the 1986 World Cup in Mexico.

The former Hibernian midfielder, whose contract is due to expire after next year's European Championships in France, has since been linked with a number of jobs in England and Scotland.

The 46 year-old is believed to want an improved long-term contract if he is to remain in charge of the national side, and Shaw suggested talks were still ongoing.

"Michael has done an excellent job, we could not have imagined how well we have done in the campaign and most of the credit for that goes to him," Shaw said. 

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

The Northern Ireland squad were given a rousing standing ovation on their return to their hotel led by Irish FA President Jim Shaw

"We've had no contact from anybody regarding Michael, and all the rest of those issues will take care of themselves in a professional manner."

The Green and White Army have never before qualified for the Euros and Shaw is hoping next summer's maiden appearance will raise Northern Ireland's standing in world football.  

Also See:

"Something like this lifts the whole country in footballing terms," Shaw said.

Northern Ireland boss Michael O'Neill enjoys the post-match celebrations in Belfast
Image: O'Neill has guided Northern Ireland to their first major championship for 30 years.

"It gives us great recognition in European and world football, our first time in the Championship.

"There will be revenue attached to it as well of course. It's not easy to put a number on it but looking at the previous tournament as a guide, it will be a substantial amount of money.

"If you have success at the tournament itself the revenue stream goes up again. We have also jumped to 35 in the world rankings, which is incredible and should make it easier to get friendlies.

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

Chief executive Patrick Nelson says Michael O'Neill has become a Northern Ireland legend

"We can't get prime fixtures because there is simply too much money involved but we'll be looking for significant friendlies in the build-up to France.

"And looking at the next generation, there will be thousands of youngsters motivated by what Northern Ireland have achieved."

Watch all Euro qualifiers for £6.99
Watch all Euro qualifiers for £6.99

Watch the crucial final round of Euro 2016 qualifiers live on Sky Sports with a NOW TV pass...

Around Sky