Northern Ireland FC: O’Neill signs four-year contract extension

Northern Ireland manager Michael O’Neill has signed a four-year contract extension to keep him at the helm until 2032.

O’Neill had been appointed interim Blackburn Rovers boss in February and had been balancing this role with his position at Northern Ireland.

However, it was announced earlier in the month that he would not be taking on the Blackburn job on a permanent basis.

The 56-year-old has managed Northern Ireland for 104 games across two spells, including at the 2016 Euros, which was their first major tournament appearance in 30 years.

“This is a role that means a great deal to me,” O’Neill said.

“I continue to believe strongly in the potential of this group of players and the direction we are moving in.

“There is a lot of work ahead, but I am excited by the future.”

O’Neill will be aiming to bounce back with his young squad after their play-off defeat by Italy ended their hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.

Northern Ireland play Guinea in an international friendly on 4 June before travelling to face France four days later as preparation for their upcoming Nations League campaign which starts in September.

O’Neill’s side have been drawn against Hungary, Georgia and Ukraine in Group B2.